The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant] Anthony J. Schukes (ASN: 32660334), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 104th Infantry Division, in action in Germany, on 24 November 1944. On that date, Sergeant Shukes’ battalion captured a section of high ground overlooking an important objective and hastily organized a defense in anticipation of a counterattack. Sergeant Schukes, a section leader of a heavy machine gun section, selected positions for his guns and instructed his men to dig in immediately. The expected counter attack, arriving before the emplacement could be completed, overran the protecting riflemen and reached the vicinity of Sergeant Schukes’ weapons. Since the intermingling of friendly and enemy troops prevented the firing of the machine guns, Sergeant Schukes, with complete disregard for his personal safety, moved to a position in front of his guns, and in the ensuing battle killed five enemy soldiers. Upon hearing that an attempt was being made to capture some riflemen, Sergeant Schukes moved forward at great risk to his life and, in a sharp engagement, dispersed the enemy after inflicting two additional casualties. His superior leadership, courage, and devotion to duty exemplify the finest traditions of the armed forces and reflect the highest credit on Sergeant Schukes and the military service.