The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Edwin J. Franklin (ASN: 0-1303701), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 7 August 1944, in France. First Lieutenant Franklin was the leader of an intelligence and reconnaissance platoon which, although confronted with overwhelming odds, fought savagely and determinedly until reinforcements arrived. First Lieutenant Franklin’s gallantry in the face of a h ail of enemy fire and the capture of several members of his platoon helped stem the enemy attack, resulting in numerous enemy dead and their subsequent withdrawal. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Franklin, 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.