The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain (Infantry) John F. Mara (ASN: 0-374376), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, on 2 August 1943. Captain Mara ignored intense fire during an attack on heavily fortified enemy positions and fearlessly exposed himself to the enemy so he might better direct the deployment of organizations of his battalion, Although he lost his life in this engagement, his gallant action reduced his battalion’s casualties to a minimum and secured the success of the operation. Captain Mara’s 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.