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 John E. Stearns, Jr. (ASN: 6980693), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily in 1943. Private Stearns voluntarily established and maintained communications between forward and rear command posts of his battalion during a fierce engagement with the enemy. Private Stearns’ fortitude and unwavering devotion to duty were instrumental in breaking enemy resistance and enabled his battalion to advance. 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.