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 Melvin H. Dowdy (ASN: 35483031), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 23 December 1944 in Luxembourg. On that date, while on duty as a member of an anti-tank squad, Private First Class Dowdy was temporarily dazed by the concussion from an exploding shell during a severe enemy artillery and mortar concentration on their position. Disregarding his own safety, he proceeded to the aid of three wounded comrades who lay in an exposed position and had called for aid. Despite the constant mortar and small arms fire in the area he administered first aid to the men during which time he was again hurled to the ground by the shock of a bursting shell. With the help of members of the gun crew, the three soldiers were eventually evacuated on stretchers which Private First Class Dowdy improvised with blankets and tree limbs. His courage, resourcefulness, and sincere devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.