The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Melvin G. Campmire (ASN: 37549369), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 222d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 20 March 1945, near Schonau, Germany. As advance elements of Private Campmire’s battalion moved into Schonau, the enemy covered the area with prior planned concentrations of artillery and mortar fire. When a shell landed amidst a group of men held up by the fire, Private Campmire, disregarding his own safety, dashed from the shelter of a building and administered first aid to the wounded. While still under intense artillery fire, he organized litter bearers and proceeded to evacuate the wounded to the battalion aid station, remaining at his task until the last man had received medical care. Through his outstanding courage and devotion to duty, Private Campmire saved the lives of six of his comrades.