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 [then Private First Class] Lee R. Wilson (ASN: 34435817), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 275th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division, on 3 January 1945. While his company was occupying a defensive position in Phillipsbourg, France, Sergeant Wilson, in the face of an enemy attack on the village from the south, fought his way with elements of his squad from house to house until an enemy encircling movement forced the men to take cover within the building. In the ensuing action, Sergeant Wilson maintained a four hour vigil at a window, from an extremely cramped position, accounting for twelve enemy casualties. His cool-headed and determined leadership stimulated the morale of the men and contributed greatly to the success of his company during the battle.