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 Sergeant Carl H. Zaum (ASN: 12147871), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 242d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 25 January 1945, at Haguenau, France. During an attack on his squad’s positions by a superior force of enemy SS troops, Sergeant Zaum displayed extraordinary courage and devotion to duty. Infiltrating enemy troops approached through the darkness almost to his foxhole and threw a hand grenade into his position. Complete disregarding his personal safety, he aided his comrades to climb from the foxhole and leave the danger area before the grenade exploded. Before he could escape himself, the grenade exploded and he was mortally wounded. Sergeant Zaum’s gallant and unselfish sacrifice saved the lives of his two fellow soldiers.