The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Francis C. Mason (ASN: 0-387134), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action 15 – 17 July 1944, in the vicinity of *** Normandy, France. During this period, Captain Mason distinguished himself in his leadership of his company in the operations leading up to and in the attack on ****. On 15 July he led his company in a successful enveloping movement against an enemy position, causing the initial enemy defenses to fall, after which he maneuvered his company against Hill Number 122. On the following day, he led a deep penetration into the enemy main line of resistance and by resourceful leadership, held his gains for two days, although his right flank was exposed and in the face of heavy enemy fire and counterattacks, and although Captain Mason was suffering from a severe concussion resulting from the explosion of an enemy shell in his observation post. On 17 July, Captain Mason personally directed the movement of attached tanks, which resulted in the penetration of well-prepared and strongly defended enemy positions. The gallantry, tenacity of purpose, disregard for personal safety and the leadership of Captain Mason in battle, reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.