The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Theodore R. Pence (ASN: 0-539817), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 314th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 19 and 20 January 1945 in France. After the enemy launched an extremely strong attack against friendly forces in Drusenheim, France, isolating an entire battalion, orders were received to attack out of position into friendly territory and Lieutenant Pence, company commander, determined to lead his company out of an almost hopeless situation. Through his indomitable determination and superb leadership he was able to save sixty-five enlisted men and four officers of an already depleted command, comprising the only company which broke out of the isolated town. The great personal courage exhibited by Lieutenant Pence reflect highest credit on himself and the armed forces of the United States.