The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Third Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) [then Staff Sergeant] Shelby Speights (ASN: 0-2006899), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 14 November 1944 in France. When an enemy patrol attacked elements of the 3d Platoon, Sergeant Speights, a squad leader, immediately went forward to take command of the situation. As he approached the battle area, he was suddenly attacked by the enemy patrol leader. Although unarmed he wrestled the rifle from his assistant and, using the rifle as a club, killed him. The loss of their leader disorganized the hostile soldiers, and Sergeant Speights swiftly rallied his men to repel the attack. As a result of his aggressive leadership, six of the enemy were killed, several others were wounded and the remainder were forced to withdraw. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.