The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Charles B. Oliver (ASN: 34898312), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 255th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 5 March 1945, in the vicinity of Gudingen, Germany. During an attack and while under heavy enemy artillery, mortar and small arms fire, Private First Class Oliver, acting as messenger for his platoon, maintained communications between the first platoon and his company commander. On his own initiative he constantly inspected the communication line for breaks. Without rest for three days, Private First Class Oliver remained by his platoon leader, offering his services willingly and cheerfully. He volunteered to evacuate a wounded man to an aid station, and during his return, he was killed by shrapnel. Private First Class Oliver’s gallant sacrifice and initiative remain as a lasting inspiration to members of his platoon and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.