The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Robert L. Dawes (ASN: 35226209), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 222d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 15 March 1945, near Reipertsweiler, France. While subjected to intense hostile automatic weapons and sniper fire, Sergeant Dawes, platoon sergeant, immediately took command of a heavy machine gun section when the section leader was wounded. Upon assuming command of the section, Sergeant Dawes personally placed the guns in positions where effective fire could be brought to bear against the enemy. By carrying out this action on his own initiative, in spite of the intense enemy fire, Sergeant Dawes greatly facilitated the advance of the friendly riflemen and enabled them to accomplish their mission. During the penetration of the enemy position, the resourcefulness and courageous conduct of Sergeant Dawes proved of vital importance to the success of his company.