The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Augustus George Elegar (ASN: 0-18625), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as G-3, 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 4 April 1945. While the assault against the city of Kassel, Germany, on 4 April 1945, was in progress Lieutenant Colonel Elegar boldly and without regard for his own safety advanced in the face of enemy fire beyond the most forward elements of the attacking troops. Here he aided the Assistant Division Commander in contacting the Commanding General of the garrison defending the city and in successfully procuring the surrender of the city together with the Commanding General and five hundred officers and men. The skillful assistance bravely rendered by Lieutenant Colonel Elegar contributed immeasurably in accomplishing the immediate capture of vital military objectives and thereby saved the lives of many American soldiers which would have been lost in a continuation of the attack. The bravery, unselfish devotion to duty, and resourcefulness of Lieutenant Colonel Elegar were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.