The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fourth Grade Claude J. LaFleur (ASN: 36877405), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 242d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 16 April 1945 near Perbach, Germany. While on a patrol, Sergeant LaFleur’s platoon was ambushed by superior enemy forces. Discovering that a companion had been wounded, Sergeant LaFleur left his own covered position to administer first aid and place the wounded man on a vehicle for evacuation. Although he was himself wounded in both legs, he held the wounded man safely in place until the party reached the aid station. By his courage and determination Sergeant LaFleur saved a fellow soldier from possible death or capture.