The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Medical Corps) John W. Henderson, Jr. (ASN: 0-333533), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Medical Officer with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily in 1943. When besieging enemy forces compelled our troops to withdraw, Major Henderson, under cover of darkness, and during heavy enemy machine gun and artillery fire, successfully led a searching party well forward of outpost lines to locate and evacuate casualties. Major Henderson’s outstanding courage and coolness under heavy enemy fire merit the highest praise. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.