The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal [then Private First Class] John Souch (ASN: 33137596), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from February through July 1943. When his battalion had been forced to withdraw from a strategic point, Corporal Souch, despite heavy enemy fire, voluntarily returned with a patrol and inflicted severe damage to the enemy. 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.