The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Silver Star to Captain (Cavalry) Claude Garland, Jr. (ASN: 0-1010131), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, 31st Tank Battalion, 7th Armored Division, in action in the area of St. Vith, Belgium, on 23 December 1944. When a hidden tank brought deadly fire to bear on our forces as they occupied a new defense line, Captain Garland unhesitatingly advanced against the hostile armor. Although the concealed position or the enemy gave him a great disadvantage, Captain Garland continued the fire fight until severely wounded. Even when under medical care Captain Garland continued to direct operations of his forces through instructions to his key non-commissioned officers. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Cavalry) Claude Garland, Jr. (ASN: 0-1010131), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, 31st Tank Battalion, 7th Armored Division, in action in the area of Chartres, France, on 15 August 1944. In the attack upon Chartres, the tank which Captain Garland was commanding came under heavy fire, began to burn and toppled helplessly into a deep shellhole. The crew was unable to extricate itself and in imminent danger of perishing in the flames. Ignoring the concentrated and accurate shelling in which the vehicle was being subjected, Captain Garland succeeded in reaching the door of the tank. Despite his completely exposed position, he kept the door open and assisted each member of the crew to evacuate the stricken vehicle. After the tank had been completely destroyed by enemy fire, Captain Garland led his men safely back to their own lines, crawling under fire for two miles with a painfully sprained ankle. Captain Garland’s gallant leadership 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, the 7th Armored Division, and the United States Army.