The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John H. Eckler, Jr. (ASN: 37400341), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 254th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 15 March 1945, in the vicinity of Eschringen, Germany. While guarding a vital bridge, Private First Class Eckler observed fifty of the enemy armed with automatic weapons and Panzerfausts moving toward his post. Unable to obtain help at the moment, he stood alone and opened fire at the advancing enemy. Amid heavy enemy fire, he moved his position several times, confusing the enemy and gaining time to enable his squad to move into position and fire upon the enemy. The enemy, under this heavy fire, retreated from their unsuccessful counterattack, leaving thirteen dead and eight wounded behind. The gallantry and devotion to duty displayed by Private First Class Eckler reflect the highest credit upon himself and upon the Armed Forces of the United States.