The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) France E. Vancil (ASN: 0-425241), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 12 February 1945. When an attacking platoon was halted by intense enemy machine gun and cross fire, Second Lieutenant Vancil volunteered to locate and destroy the hostile flanking weapons. Deliberately exposing himself to the Japanese fire, he aided in launching a succession of rockets which destroyed three enemy guns and killed nine Japanese soldiers. Second Lieutenant Vancil’s bold and aggressive action was of decisive important in furthering his company’s advance. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Second Lieutenant Vancil, 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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) France E. Vancil (ASN: 0-425241), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division. During the assault against the strong hostile positions around the Irisan River Bridge in the P:I on 21 April 1945, Lieutenant Vancil exhibited outstanding courage and combat efficiency as he successfully led his platoon in the attack. He skillfully coordinated the assault and advanced with the leading elements of his unit. His men overran 30 enemy caves and foxholes, killed 22 Japanese, and captured 3 large field pieces. Lieutenant Vancil personally killed seven hostile soldiers, and when two men of his platoon fell wounded, helped carry them 100 yards under enemy fire to positions of safety. 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.