The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Leonard W. Owens (ASN: 15045641), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action on ** April 1943, near ****, Tunisia. After the platoon leader had been killed in action, Staff Sergeant Owens assumed command of the platoon, and skillfully led the troops forward across open terrain through heavy enemy artillery, mortar and small arms fire. Staff Sergeant Owens single-handedly attacked the machine gun position and silenced the gun. His exceptional leadership, his personal bravery and initiative were a constant inspiration to his men.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Distinguished Service Cross
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Distinguished Service Cross
Service:
United States ArmyRank:
Staff SergeantRegiment:
39th Infantry RegimentDivision:
9th Infantry DivisionAction Date:
August 12, 1943
Headquarters, SEVENTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 32 (November 16, 1943), Amended by General Orders No. 37 (1943)(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Leonard W. Owens (ASN: 15045641), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Sicily, on 12 August 1943. Staff Sergeant Owens’ extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.