The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Paul T. Lester (ASN: 15112444), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 27 September 1944, near ****, Holland. Private First Class Lester, runner in Company G, 3d Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in the absence of any officer or non-commissioned officer, personally led a platoon under heavy enemy fire in a daring assault on a group of hostile machine guns in the woods. Six machine guns were destroyed and many prisoners captured. His high courage, initiative and leadership at a critical moment enabled his company to achieve its objective. Throughout continuing successful assaults by his platoon, his personal daring and disregard for danger were a constant source of inspiration to all members of the company. On a later mission, he again reorganized the platoon when its commander and non-commissioned offers were wounded and led it to take an objective and hold it against counterattack. His actions reflect the highest credit on himself and the United States Army.