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 (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] Earle Albie Johnson, Jr. (ASN: 0-26211), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 253d Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 9 April 1945, in the vicinity of Kressbach, Germany. Captain Johnson and his party were caught in a rocket barrage while on reconnaissance; several men, including Captain Johnson, were wounded. Despite his wound and the continued barrage, Captain Johnson went to the aid of one of the wounded and evacuated him to safety, undoubtedly saving his life. After that, although painfully wounded, he refused to be evacuated because he felt his presence necessary in the impending operations. He returned to his command and led it against the enemy. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Johnson, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.