The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Chaplain’s Corps) Carl August Heckmann, United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a chaplain with the 314th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division, in operations in France, on 22 September 1944. After many casualties were suffered during the bitter fighting at the Meurthe River in Northeastern France, Chaplain Heckmann volunteered his services as a litter bearer. The only roue to the wounded men was over open terrain, subject to enemy observation and intense fire. Chaplain Heckmann made repeated trips and evacuated casualties until he was caught in enemy fire and severely wounded. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Chaplain Heckmann, 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.