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 Francis S. Compton, United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 387th Infantry Regiment, 97th Infantry Division, in action at Schaaren, Germany, on 9 April 1945. Private First Class Compton, an automatic rifleman, was severely wounded in the right shoulder by shrapnel as he moved into position to establish a base of fire. Unable to operate his weapon he gave it to his squad leader and heroically continued to advance to the fire position. During the remainder of the engagement he assisted in locating enemy targets and in carrying and passing ammunition for he weapon. Private First Class Compton’s courageous actions while wounded were an inspiration to the men of his platoon and aided in keeping the enemy pinned down as they attacked and destroyed the emplacements. His gallantry and fortitude on this occasion reflect high credit upon himself and the Armed Forces.