The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Fay A. Wirth, Jr. (ASN: 16106180), 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 25 November 1944 in France. In the attack on Fretteling, France, on 25 November 1944, Corporal Wirth, acting as liaison between a rifle company and his own heavy weapons company, discovered an emplaced 88-mm. gun fully manned which was preparing to fire on an American platoon. With utter disregard for his own personal safety, Corporal Wirth opened fire on the crew, killing one and putting the remainder to rout. His courageous and aggressive action destroyed a strong enemy position and saved many lives, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.