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 Captain (Infantry) Altus F. McReynolds (ASN: 0-445798), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, on 7 June 1944, in France. As Regimental Adjutant, he was in charge of 350 enemy soldiers shortly after their surrender. Enemy artillery fire falling on the Regimental Command Post endangered the post personnel and the security of the prisoners. It became necessary to remove the prisoners to an enclosure in the rear. Without hesitation or regard for his own safety, Captain McReynolds moved the 350 prisoners across an open area. This action brought about an intense enemy artillery concentration which would have led to panic among the prisoners and an opportunity for their escape had it not been for Captain McReynolds’ display of coolness and aggressiveness in keeping them moving. During this action Captain McReynolds was mortally wounded.