The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Franklin Henrie Hartline, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 3d Battalion, 382d Infantry Regiment, 96th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, in April 1945. Lieutenant Colonel Hartline demonstrated courageous leadership during a counterattack on his battalion, when he exposed himself in order to direct the fire of his men. His battalion having halted the frontal attack, Lieutenant Colonel Hartline then personally led a small group of men around to the left flank of the enemy, and from that position, set up a wall of fire that completely routed the already weakened enemy force. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Hartline, 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.