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 Private First Class [then Private] John F. Welborn (ASN: 34515897), United States Army, for gallantry in action against an armed enemy while serving with the 398th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division, in France, on 19 August 1944.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class [then Private] John F. Welborn (ASN: 34515897), United States Army, for gallantry in action in northern France while serving with the 398th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division. On 23 July 1944, after his battalion had a serious engagement and had been forced back to a new position leaving many wounded on the battlefield, Private First Class Welborn initiated an effort to recover the wounded in full view of the enemy. Disregarding the threat of enemy fire, he voluntarily went into Òno man’s landÓ to remove the wounded to a place of safety. His example was an inspiration to his companions and four others followed him. They successfully removed several of the wounded men before they were driven from the field by enemy fire. Private First Class Welborn’s initiative, courage and gallant action was an inspiration not only to those who followed his example but to those who witnessed his actions.