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 Robert P. Augenstein (ASN: 33150910), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Cavalry Division at Lucban, Luzon Island, Philippine Islands, on 23 May 1945. Private Augenstein, an 81-mm. mortar gunner, was point man on a reconnaissance patrol which came under withering enemy machine gun and sniper fire from a well-concealed position. While his comrades were delivering fire on the enemy, Private Augenstein crawled forward toward the enemy position covering his advance with grenades. After several unsuccessful attempts to destroy the position, he again moved forward under the deadly enemy fire and threw two grenades into the seemingly indestructible fortification. The enemy fiercely retaliated by throwing grenades which exploded within a few feet of his position but with disregard for almost certain death, Private Augenstein advanced and threw grenades into the position through the vision slits until the enemy was completely annihilated, thus enabling the patrol to successfully complete their mission. Private Augenstein’s extreme valor and coolness under enemy fire reflected great credit upon himself and the military service.