(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Infantry) John Nelson Merrill, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while commanding an Infantry Battalion of the 92d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in France, during World War I. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Merrill, 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.