The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Alfred K. Hulen (ASN: 38630375), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 254th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 30 March 1945, in the vicinity of Plunkstadt, Germany. After the platoon guide and the platoon sergeant had been hit by enemy fire, Sergeant Hulen too command of the platoon and in the face of heavy fire from a self-propelled gun and automatic weapons led his men in the attack. Though wounded himself by enemy fire, Sergeant Hulen refused to be evacuated, and continued to lead his men in destroying the crew of the self-propelled gun. The intrepidity with which Sergeant Hulen accomplished his mission was an inspiration to all those under him. The magnificent courage and outstanding gallantry under fire of Sergeant Hulen reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.