The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Dale W. Kissel, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 75th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 23 January 1945, in Commandster, Belgium. A company of well-entrenched enemy infantry supported by three tanks pinned a rifle company to the ground. Without regard for personal safety, Lieutenant Kissel, an artillery forward observer, moved forward alone and made observations for directing fire upon the enemy forces. Returning to his former position, he directed fire with such accuracy that one tank was knocked out, another disabled and the entire enemy force was routed with many killed and wounded. His disregard for personal safety and gallant performance of duty under enemy fire are particularly outstanding, reflecting high honors upon Lieutenant Kissel and the Field Artillery of the United States Army.