The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Louis J. Ehlinger (ASN: 42144771), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 9th Infantry Battalion, 6th Armored Division, in action in the vicinity of Pinteefeld, Germany, on 28 February 1945. While leading his squad, he attacked an enemy position, braving intense enemy fire to single-handedly wipe out the strong point by killing two and taking several prisoners. He then led his squad in an attack upon another enemy strong point which cost him his life, but his gallantry enabled the squad to accomplish its mission, and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Infantrymen.