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 [then Private] Vincent R. Johnson (ASN: 12007829), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy east of Oran, Algeria, 9 November 1942. During the Oran Offensive, Private Johnson acted as scout for the advance guard of his company. While on this mission, he was ambushed by heavy machine gun and rifle fire. Although badly wounded, he gained cover and attempted to silence the enemy machine gun by throwing a hand grenade. Private Johnson, by his alertness and utter disregard for personal safety, prevented the 2d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, from sustaining further casualties. 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.