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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) John H. Stowers (ASN: 0-176135), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of **** and ****, France, 11 to 16 September 1944. Colonel Stowers, Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion, *** Infantry Regiment, personally reconnoitered a route to the **** River, accompanied leading elements in an assault crossing, then deployed his troops, moving among them and directing their fire. After securing the bridgehead, the battalion advanced toward **** on the night of 13 September, when they were confronted by an enemy road block and well emplaced machine guns. Colonel Stowers led his men over difficult terrain to a woods, outflanked the road block, moved into **** the following morning, then pressed on to **** and into **** on the east bank of the **** River. While heavy enemy fire was falling in the area, Colonel Stowers personally supervised the movement across the river to the enemy bank, where he directed deployment of the troops as they reached the hostile shore. His intrepid bravery, sterling leadership, sound tactical judgment, and complete disregard for personal safety made possible the rapid advance of his unit, and reflects highest credit upon his character as an officer and leader of men.