The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Gerald Jones (ASN: 20726002), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, France, on 20 September 1944. Sergeant Jones, a platoon sergeant, led his platoon in an attack against strong enemy positions near ****, and succeeded in reaching the edge of the forest. He reorganized his platoon under heavy enemy fire, then deployed his men in defensive positions. He personally killed several Germans by accurate rifle fire. Although communication lines to the company command post were destroyed about 0900, Sergeant Jones held his forward position throughout the day, protecting the right flank of his company. That evening, realizing that his platoon was in danger of being cut off from other units of the company, he covered the successful withdrawal of his platoon to new positions. Sergeant Jones’ gallantry in action, outstanding leadership and devotion to duty enabled his platoon to inflict heavy casualties upon superior enemy forces, and reflect the highest credit upon his character as a soldier and leader of men.