The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Melvin V. Fritts (ASN: 0-1286630), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, France, on 16 and 17 August 1944. On 16 and 17 August, in the attack against ****, Captain Fritts commanded Company G, *** Infantry Regiment, which led the advance across open terrain under enemy observation. By superior and outstanding leadership and tactical skill, Captain Fritts so deployed his company, that despite heavy enemy fire of all types, it succeeded in forcing the enemy’s withdrawal from the vicinity and facilitated the capture of ****. Captain Fritts was wounded in this action, but insisted upon returning to his command immediately after receiving medical attention. Captain Fritts’ leadership, tactical skill and disregard for personal safety are in accord with the military traditions of the United States.