(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Captain (Infantry) Preston O. Gordon (ASN: 0-443133), United States Army, was awarded a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy while serving with the 9th Infantry Division during World War II.

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) Preston O. Gordon (ASN: 0-443133), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, while temporarily attached to the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. When his company commander had been wounded by enemy action, Lieutenant Gordon immediately assumed command led his men in a successful attack on strategic enemy positions. Although subjected to heavy machine gun and mortar fire, he refused to withdraw and personally directed the silencing of several enemy machine guns. Throughout the engagement, Lieutenant Gordon remained in the most forward positions to better direct his men’s efforts. 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.