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 John R. Welch (ASN: 15315559), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, *** Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, France, 27 September 1944. When more than two companies of enemy infantry, armed with machine pistols, semi-automatic rifles and rocket-launchers, and supported by heavy mortar fire, attacked a road block established by Company A, *** Infantry Regiment five hundred yards east of **** on 27 September, it was imperative that the attack be repulsed in order to prevent splitting of the battalion’s defensive positions and over-running of the battalion command post. The enemy laid a preparatory barrage of intense mortar fire, under which it launched its attack, taking advantage of the rough terrain and covering the company’s flanks with automatic fire in order to avoid the road block. Sergeant Welch, a platoon sergeant, moved constantly among the men, reorganizing them, helping them in contact with each other and coordinating their fire. Though he had a foxhole, he did not use it. When one of the automatic riflemen of his platoon had his weapon shot out of his hands, Sergeant Welch obtained another for him. Exposing himself to the heavy enemy fire, he moved about rendering first aid, assisting at the various positions and by his inspiring words and deeds, roused the courage of his men in their successful defense of the road block. His initiative, resourcefulness and inspiring leadership constitutes such gallantry as to be in accordance with the traditions of the military service.