The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Leo C. Downs (ASN: 33722028), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, *** Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, France, on 24 September 1944. During an intense enemy artillery barrage, two vehicles carrying men of Company D, *** Infantry Regiment, were struck by enemy fire which caused numerous casualties. Sergeant Downs, a squad leader, although himself wounded in the back and leg, calmly proceeded to render first aid to his comrades amid bursting shells. When ambulances arrived, he began searching the area for men who were missing, and did not cease his efforts until he had assured himself that medical assistance had been given to all casualties. Sergeant Downs’ gallantry, courage and spirit of self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon his character as a soldier, and upon the military service.