The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant John A. Karnavas (ASN: 33148060), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 44th Armored Infantry Battalion, 6th Armored Division, in action in France and Belgium during the period 8 November 1944 to 5 January 1945. During this period he contributed significantly to the advance of his unit in combat. On 14 November 1944 at Landroff, France, he was responsible for the repulse of two strong counterattacks. Again at Eberling, France, on 4 December 1944, his quick thinking and aggressive action resulted in the capture of a bridge intact, when he personally destroyed the enemy left to guard it. His courage and determination reflect high credit to himself and the United States Army.