The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Fred May (ASN: 35434635), 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 13 February 1945 in Germany. When the rifle company in which he served as a weapons platoon sergeant, was temporarily delayed in its attack near Biesdorf, Germany, on 13 February 1945, Technical Sergeant May left the safety of his foxhole to man a 60-mm. mortar. In spite of the intense small arms and machine gun fire directed at him he skillfully registered his mortar rounds on the German positions and destroyed both guns and crews. His courageous action, skill, and devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.