The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant] John A. Clark (ASN: 12021446), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily during the period from March through August 1943. Although under heavy enemy fire, Sergeant Clark and another enlisted man advanced upon an enemy observation post and a machine-gun nest. By carefully working his way forward, he was able to destroy the machine-gun and compel the personnel of the observation post to withdraw, thereby permitting the continued advance of his company. 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.