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 First Class Kenneth Lawrence Marburger (ASN: 35358927), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with 318th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 22 December 1944 in Luxembourg. Private First Class Marburger, serving as an automatic rifleman with an infantry rifle company in an assault upon a strongly held enemy village assisted considerably in the advance by his fearless tactics. In an effort to afford his platoon sufficient time to organize a defense, when the enemy suddenly launched a fanatic thrust, Private First Class Marburger, with utter disregard for his own safety, took a standing position and began firing directly into the enemy forces. His accurate and continuous fire temporarily demoralized the enemy and gave his platoon sufficient time to consolidate their position and commit the support squad. It was while firing from this upright position that he was mortally wounded. The bravery, aggressiveness, and loyal devotion to duty displayed by Private First Class Marburger were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.