This is a recommendation for Posthumous Award of Silver Star to Allen C. Owen.

To: Commanding General, 9th Infantry Division, APO 9 (thru channels)

1. Recommend that S/Sgt. Allen C. Owen(s), 6966524, Company "A", 60th Infantry, be awarded the Silver Star posthumously, for gallantry in action 17 April 1945 near Barrenrode, Germany. Rank at time of act :S/Sgt. Branch of service: Infantry.

2. S/Sgt. Owen(s) was at that time platoon guide of the second platoon. The platoon was operating with supporting tanks in an attack to clear a road junction and secure commanding ground beyond. As the platoon neared its objective it was exposed to a heavy volume of fire which began at the front and gradually developed on the flanks as well. Inspite of the devastating enemy fire which halted the advance S/Sgt. Owen(s), on his own initiative immediately moved forward to determine the location of the enemy positions. With utter and complete disregard for his own safty, he moved forward under direct observation and fire from enemy positions on the left flank to determine the strength of opposing infantry. He returned to the platoon position refusing to take cover from the enemy fire and inspiring all men of the platoon with his courage and coolness. When the order to withdraw was given S/Sgt. Owen(s) moved about among the men organizing covering fire to support the withdrawal. While so engaged he was a constant target for enemy small arms and machine gun fire. However, he continued to ignore his own safty until he was killed. S/Sgt. Owen(s) gallantry, devotion to the men with who he served, and disregard for devotinn to the men with whom he served, and disregard for personal safty were an inspiration to all who witnessed the action. His action was responsible to a loarge extent in saving many lives and was in the highest tradition of the United States Infantry.

3. Previous awards: Combat Infantry Badge.

This was sent to Della Andrews Yerby, due to my request. Allen C. "Pete" was my first cousin, and I dearly loved him. I just wish that he could have been brought hom, to be buried. I think he was one of the bravest men that I have ever known. He truly gave his life, in order to save others. I am very proud of him.

Della Andrews Yerby in Mississippi

Allen C Owen