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 Charles L. Wilcox (ASN: 33456619), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 302d Infantry Regiment, 94th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy from 20 January to 26 January 1945 in Germany. During the night of 19 – 20 January 1945, his platoon participated in an attack on the town of Tettingen, Germany. At the dawn of morning of 20 January 1945 this unit was completely cut off from friendly troops and entirely surrounded by the enemy. Without communication facilities, in full view of the enemy and continually subjected to severe artillery, mortar and small arms fire, the group held its position, dug a perimeter defense and inflicted heavy losses on the enemy forces attempting to dislodge them. For seven days this group tenaciously defended their position in spite of lack of food, bitter cold and snow. Throughout this period these men existed on seven cans of “C” rations and crusts of bread taken from Germans they had killed. On the seventh day advancing troops were contacted and under intense enemy fire the platoon withdrew from their position. During the seven day period they killed or wounded some 150 enemy troops and kept the enemy in constant confusion as to the true location of our lines. Their action relieved enemy pressure upon the town occupied by our forces. The gallantry, courageous determination and devotion to duty, many times displayed by each member of this group, are an inspiration to all and exemplify the highest traditions of the military service.