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) George D. Lamm (ASN: 1287020), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 17 – 18 September 1944, at ****, Holland. First Lieutenant Lamm, Platoon Leader, Company A, 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, demonstrated high courage when enemy mobile troops moving into **** stopped our advance toward the bridge crossing the Waal River in the city. Machine guns and 20-mm. cannons covered the principal streets. When the two leading platoons of his company were blocked by enemy fire, First Lieutenant Lamm brought his platoon forward and passed through, taking a circular park near the bridgehead. Freely exposing himself to urge his men forward, he drove into the park and forced the enemy back. After continually encouraging his men in the face of enemy fire for four hours, First Lieutenant Lamm and his platoon reached the demolitions control station at the bridge. A strong force of enemy defended this point. First Lieutenant Lamm worked his way forward to a position where he was able to attack and burn the station. Mortar fire made our further advance impossible and First Lieutenant Lamm covered the withdrawal of his men under machine gun and 20-mm. fire. By his determined efforts and unselfish conduct despite heavy enemy fire, he caused many casualties to be inflicted upon the enemy. The destruction of the control station probably prevented the blowing of the bridge and enabled supporting units to later gain the bridge intact – the accomplishment of our mission. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.




