Charles A. Dowd, Jr.

By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved 9 July 19181 (Bull. 43, WD 1918), a Silver Star is awarded by the Commanding General, 11th Airborne Division, to the following named officer and enlisted men: Staff Sergeant Charles A. Dowd, Jr., 12094510, Infantry, United States Army. For gallantry in action against the enemy in Luzon, Philippine Islands on 6 April 1945. When the leading elements of a rifle company were pinned down by intense enemy machine guns and rifle fire, Staff Sergeant Dowd volunteered to make a route reconnaissance across fire-swept terrain so that a tank destroyer might effectively engage the enemy targets. This gallant soldier then remained on an exposed knoll to aid in fire direction. When the tank destroyer was rendered inoperative by enemy fire, Staff Sergeant Dowd volunteered to bring another tank destroyer across the fire-swept terrain and once more aided in the fire direction. Later, when enemy mortar and sniper fire made the position untenable and a withdrawal was necessary, Staff Sergeant Dowd organized and effected the evacuation of the wounded. The courage, initiative, and devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Dowd reflect great credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service.