The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Field Artillery) John H. Mercer, Jr. (ASN: 0-355503), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Battery, 862d Field Artillery Battalion, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 9 April 1945, in the vicinity of Wendischenhof, Germany. As the infantry was clearing a town, Captain Mercer led his liaison section through two heavy concentrations of enemy artillery and rocket fire in order to reach the house where he planned to establish an observation post. His outstanding leadership and gallantry under fire resulted in the establishment of the observation post without a casualty. After establishing the observation post, he aided the infantry immeasurably in driving the enemy from the commanding ground surrounding its position. The magnificent courage and outstanding gallantry under fire Captain Mercer reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.