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 Gene Porter Daugherty (ASN: 37616042), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Italy, on 5 June 1944. Private Daugherty was automatic rifleman with the 1st platoon Company L, as it moved by motor convoy toward a strategic city. An enemy force attack engaged the platoon in a fire fight. From his covered position, Private Daugherty saw an enemy machine gun crew going into action. Realizing the gravity of the threat and the casualties it would cause, he left his place of safety and advanced headlong into the machine gun fire, answering with deadly blasts from his rife. By his courageous action he destroyed the gun crew and materially aided his platoon to defeat the enemy, killing 12, wounding 13 and capturing 15. Private Daugherty’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.