The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Bernard S. Pratt (ASN: 32575134), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division on 28 July 1944, in France. Sergeant Pratt was assigned to duty as radio operator with the Cannon Company of an infantry unit engaged in an extensive attack against the enemy. The attacking forces were brought to a standstill and pinned down by heavy hostile fire. Without hesitation, and at the risk of his life, Sergeant Pratt plunged forward across the battlefield until he was in advance of the infantry elements. Voluntarily exposing himself in order to attract hostile fire, he was thus able to locate enemy positions and by transmitting the information he learned back to the cannoneers, the strongpoints were destroyed and large forces of enemy troops decimated, which allowed the assault to be continued. This gallant heroism and outstanding devotion to duty reflect great credit on Sergeant Pratt and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.