The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Peter M. Axson, Jr. (ASN: 0-1315549), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 387th Infantry Regiment, 97th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy. On 16 April 1945, Lieutenant Axson was leading his platoon in an assault on Imbach, Germany. Learning that his company commander had become a casualty, Lieutenant Axson immediately assumed command and redeployed his troops. He then crossed open terrain under intense enemy fire to a building from which he could observe the enemy. Enemy artillery soon placed the building under fire but Lieutenant Axson fearlessly remained at his post. Within view of the enemy and under heavy fire he raced forward to an orchard on higher ground where he could better observe and remained there with automatic weapons fire falling all about him until his reconnaissance was completed. Lieutenant Axson then contacted adjacent friendly troops and prepared a coordinated attack upon the town. His daring conduct so inspired his men that the company’s mission was successfully completed. Lieutenant Axson’s gallantry on this occasion reflects high credit upon himself and the Armed Forces.