Claude Parke Jones Jr.

1st Lieutenant, U. S. Army

Silver Star

GENERAL ORDERS:
Headquarters, 101st Airborne Division, General Orders No. 26 (March 18, 1945)
CITATION:
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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Claude P. Jones, Jr. (ASN: 0-386618), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division.
On 21 December 1944 during the siege of Bastogne, Belgium, he organized a platoon of thirty men which he placed in a defensive position under heavy enemy fire. Lieutenant Jones personally placed his men in firing positions, procured weapons and blankets for those only partially equipped and visited their positions several times during the night to encourage his men. When the enemy launched a heavy attack, Lieutenant Jones again exposed himself to heavy enemy fire in order to instill in his men confidence and courage. During this action, he was mortally wounded by enemy fire. His skillful leadership, courage and devotion to duty were an inspiration to his men.
His actions were in accordance with the military traditions of the United States.