The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) [then Second Lieutenant] Norman F. Wardwell (ASN: 0-1323078), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Normandy, France, on 17 July 1944. After completing his mission of establishing contact with an adjoining unit, Lieutenant Wardwell, a platoon leader, returned to his company and found it in a state of confusion, its commander wounded, and concentrations of enemy fire falling in the area. Promptly assuming command and reorganizing his troops, Lieutenant Wardwell led the company in an inspiring advance over difficult terrain interspersed with hedgerows and sunken roads, forcing an enemy withdrawal and capturing a number of prisoners. While leading the attack, Lieutenant Wardwell came upon an enemy mortar, personally destroyed it with grenades, and killed a member of the crew who attempted to escape. Lieutenant Wardwell’s intrepidity reflects the highest credit upon his character as an officer and leader of men.