The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Earnest A. Cramer (ASN: 36104845), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Heistern, Germany, on 24 November 1944. When his Company’s position was subjected to an intense mortar barrage from strongly fortified enemy emplacements, Sergeant Cramer, with utter disregard for personal safety, courageously led a platoon across perilous terrain and destroyed a hostile observation post. Then, although painfully wounded, he directed accurate fire and silenced a number of German strongpoints, thereby aiding immeasurably in his organization’s seizure of an important objective. Sergeant Cramer’s gallant actions and outstanding initiative were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.