The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Francis J. Bardon (ASN: 35590261), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 3d Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 21 December 1944, near ****, Belgium. Private Bardon, a lead scout, ran into heavy fire from three enemy machine guns, one flak wagon and numerous small arms weapons. Even though seriously wounded, Private Bardon refused to withdraw and returned the enemy’s fire, holding them off until his platoon had maneuvered to an attacking position. Private Bardon personally accounted for five of the enemy killed and many more wounded, including one entire machine gun crew. Only when he had received a direct order from his platoon leader, did he consent to be evacuated. Private Bardon’s courageous and gallant one-man stand against the overwhelming odds was instrumental in the success of the mission and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Armed Forces.