The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Technician Fourth Grade Jack S. Blessing (ASN: 33574005), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 11th Airborne Division on Leyte, Philippine Islands, on 6 December 1944. When enemy parachutists attacked an airstrip, Technician Fourth Grade Blessing, a communications chief, was en route from the airstrip to his unit with a radio which was urgently needed. Instead of seeking safety with nearby friendly units, this intrepid soldier elected to continue on to his battalion. Under constant heavy fire, Technician Fourth Grade Blessing moved forward until he was fatally wounded. His great courage, daring initiative, and zealous devotion to duty were an inspiration to his unit and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.