The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Michael J. Shea (ASN: 31272438), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 54th Armored Infantry Battalion, 10th Armored Division, at Bastogne, Belgium, on 23 December 1944. When two members of his patrol were pinned down by fierce hostile fire, Technical Sergeant Shea, reconnaissance platoon sergeant, bravely advanced to the flank of the enemy and with his automatic rifle fire, forced the enemy to abandon their position, enabling his men to safely withdraw. His gallant achievement reflects great credit upon himself and the military forces of the United States.