The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal John M. Gottschalk (ASN: 12025815), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, during the period from January to May 1943. Encountering heavy enemy mortar and machine gun fire, Corporal Gottschalk, although painfully wounded, crawled to the aid of a wounded man and assisted in evacuating him. 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.