The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Keith B. Dowell (ASN: 39591733), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, Germany, on 9 April 1945. Under heavy enemy mortar and small arms fire, Sergeant Dowell, a squad leader, swam across the **** Canal and, upon reaching the hostile shore, killed one German, wounded another, and obtained a boat which his squad used to cross the canal and secure the bridgehead, and which the assault platoon leader later used to construct a foot-bridge. Sergeant Dowell’s gallant actions under fire resulted in the accomplishment of his unit’s hazardous mission. 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 and the United States Army.