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 Harvey V. McMillan (ASN: 6864266), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the *** Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized), in action against the enemy in France on 11 August 1944. Sergeant McMillan was leading his platoon on a reconnaissance mission in the vicinity of Bourg Noval. In order to reach their objective, they had to pass through an open field covered by machine gun and small arms fire of the enemy who were operating in a force of approximately 100 men and twelve machine gun emplacements in a well-knit defense. Sergeant McMillan gave the order to “Charge!” As his men began to storm the enemy positions, they were cut by murderous automatic fire, and on seeing the impossibility of the situation, he ordered a withdrawal. One soldier fell wounded and helpless in the fire-raked field. Sergeant McMillan, with complete disregard for his personal safety, crawled gallantry into the open and, upon reaching the stricken man, shielded him with his own body while he rendered first aid. Then grasping the casualty, he dragged him back to safety. Resuming command of his platoon, Sergeant McMillan led another attack on the enemy stronghold and routed them in a fierce charge. His gallantry, great leadership ability and devotion to duty are a credit to himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.