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 (Field Artillery) Gordon Vanden Brink, United States Army, for gallantry in action in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany, during the period 28 July 1944 to 1 May 1945. As Division Wire Officer, First Lieutenant Vanden Brink has consistently displayed exceptional skill, efficiency, and courage in the performance of his often hazardous tasks. Many times he went ahead of the troops, with complete disregard for his safety, often encountering enemy fire, to effect the prompt and efficient installation of wire communication. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Vanden Brink, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.