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 Lee R. Bumgardner (ASN: 39343184), 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 24 December 1944 in Luxembourg. On that date, in the vicinity of Heiderscheid, Luxembourg, Private Bumgardner, serving as a Tank Cannoneer, was engaged in re-fueling the tank when he and the crew were surprised by a rapidly developing early morning enemy attack. Perceiving the situation, he immediately mounted the tank and with utter disregard for his personal safety entered the turret to man the bow machine gun despite wounds received from enemy machine gun fire. His actions completely and successfully disorganized the enemy and proved a decisive factor in liberating Heiderscheid. The bravery, aggressiveness, and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Private Bumgardner were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.