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) Anthony J. Prahl (ASN: 0-1310302), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of Eilendorf, Germany, on 17 September 1944. Although constantly subjected to intense artillery fire and in danger of being surrounded and captured, Lieutenant Prahl heroically remained at an observation post and directed an effective mortar barrage upon counterattacking enemy troops and tanks. When elements of the German force threatened to overrun his position, he ordered the mortar sections to fire upon the observation post and compelled the foe to take flight. Lieutenant Prahl’s courage and devotion to duty prevented penetration of the Allied foothold in Germany. 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.