The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Technical Sergeant Leonard A. Jones (ASN: 33442644), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, during the Moselle River crossing in Maxonchamp, Vosges, France on 24 September 1944. Technical Sergeant Jones crossed an open, iron bridge three times, despite enemy machine gun and sniper fire at ranges of 30 to 150 yards, to persuade his company to make this hazardous crossing. His fearless action made the men forget their fear and follow him, bridging the river and establishing themselves on its far side. Having accomplished this, he again exposed himself to murderous enemy fire to direct his men to a prearranged assembly point from whence a successful attack on an enemy standpoint was launched. While performing this act, he was killed by enemy machine gun fire. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.