The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Edward N. Wellems (ASN: 0-24484), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 2 February 1945, one and one-half miles southeast of ****, Germany. Lieutenant Colonel Wellems, Battalion Commander during a critical period in the attack on the Siegfried Line, ignored heavy artillery and concentrated small arms fire delivered from well concealed positions and moved forward to personally reorganize units shattered by heavy casualties and led them again into the attack. On at least three occasions, Lieutenant Colonel Wellems, finding platoons losing their forward impetus as a result of casualties among officers and non-commissioned officers, personally took command and, without regard for his own safety, conveyed to the units his own fearless determination. During the entire attack, he moved from company to company, encouraging, supervising and issuing orders, continuously under enemy fire. His calm and courageous leadership, and his unyielding fortitude made possible the successful attack by his battalion. 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 and the United States Army.