The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Earl H. Mann (ASN: 39721747), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 22d Tank Battalion, 11th Armored Division, on 19 April 1945, near Grafenwohr, Germany. While serving as a member of the reconnaissance platoon, Private Mann, disregarding his own personal safety, dashed fifty yards across an open square to a building from which sniper fire was being received and, after a fire fight, killed the enemy sniper. Upon leaving the building Private Mann spotted four enemy soldiers proceeding through a corridor and opened fire on them, wounding one and capturing the other three. The actions of Private Mann made it possible for the advancing elements to proceed on their mission. His gallant courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.