The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Jonathan Rudd (ASN: 0-1081625), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 232d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division. Assuming command of his company on 5 January 1945 when his company commander became a casualty, Lieutenant Rudd, without regard for his personal safety, exposed himself to enemy fire from all directions while leading his company, and was wounded by enemy fire. His company was forced to withdraw, but because of his wounds he could not be taken with them and was reported missing in action.