The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) John E. McCarthy (ASN: 0-885733), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943. During an assault on enemy territory, Lieutenant McCarthy established an observation post deep within enemy lines, from which he directed the effective fire of his mortar platoon. Although discovered and subjected to heavy enemy fire, he succeeded in destroying a number of the enemy and quantities of equipment. 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.