The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) John C. Cliff (ASN: 1051911), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery A, 80th Airborne Anti-Aircraft (Anti-Tank) Battalion, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 7 June 1944, north of Ste Mere Eglis, France. Second Lieutenant Cliff was in command of the Anti-Tank Platoon in positions established near the highway near the north edge of the town. German forces were being brought in from the north. Second Lieutenant Cliff directed his guns against motor trucks carrying soldiers, knocked out at least one truck, and disorganized the convoy. His position was then attacked by an enemy armored car which he succeeded in knocking out. The enemy laid down smoke in front of his position. When it had cleared he saw a medium tank approaching rapidly. He directed fire against the tank, disabled it with two rounds, but the tank cannon continued to fire on his position at point-blank range. Second Lieutenant Cliff maintained observation from an exposed position and by his courageous action inspired the men of the platoon to stick determinedly to their guns until the enemy weapon had been silenced. In this engagement he accomplished the destruction of three pieces of enemy equipment that was highly instrumental in effecting the repulse of all German counter-attacks. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.