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 Frank M. Steadman (ASN: 33659502), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Cannon Company, 318th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 10 April 1945 in Germany. In preparation for the attack into Erfurt, Germany, on 10 April 1945, Private First Class Steadman and three other riflemen were given the mission of reconnoitering a crossroad in the company route of advance. As they approached the crossroad severe enemy fire from an automatic weapon forced them to take cover. In order to locate the hidden gun Private First Class Steadman rose to his feet and advanced until fired at again by the enemy. Having located its position he crawled closer, again rose to his feet despite the intense fire and hurled a grenade, destroying the gun and crew. Private First Class Steadman’s aggressive courage, initiative, 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.