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 (Infantry) John Neary Davis (ASN: 0-22070), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa in 1943. Captain Davis, while on reconnaissance, discovered a company of infantry in grave danger of being surrounded and cut off by the enemy. Crossing terrain swept continually by heavy enemy fire, he organized and directed a counterattack which relieved this company from its hazardous position. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Davis, 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.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major (Infantry) John Neary Davis (ASN: 0-22070), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily in 1943. During an assault on enemy strongholds, Major Davis, despite heavy enemy artillery and mortar fire, personally led his battalion’s attack. Although painfully wounded in this engagement, he continued his mission. Major Davis’ keen tactical judgment and superior leadership enabled his unit to achieve its objective. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Davis, 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.