The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Chaplain’s Corps) Charles Arthur Francis, United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a Chaplain with the 141st Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action in Italy, on 22 November 1943. When word was received by Chaplain Francis that three men had been killed by enemy shell fire and buried near an advanced outpost, he immediately organized a litter party to evacuate them. Fearlessly leading the group up two steep, hazardous ascents while continuously exposed to deadly mortar, machine gun and small arms fire, he moved forward to the outpost lines. Although under enemy observation and subjected to intense aimed fire at this vital position, he worked tirelessly for five hours excavating the bodies. Then, with dogged determination and spirit, and physically exhausted, he helped carry them back down the tortuous trails to the collecting point. His magnificent courage and valor greatly inspired the men of the party. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Chaplain Francis, 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.