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) Russell A. Freas, Jr. (ASN: 0-412670), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of Service Company, 423d Infantry Regiment, 106th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 16 December 1944 in Germany. Captain Freas led his men against the Germans in a counterattack against Bleialf, Germany. His men, fighting as riflemen for the first time, gallantly pushed the Germans out of town in their zone. Captain Freas personally led the men into many buildings, capturing a number of prisoners himself. His heroic actions played a vital part in re-taking Bleialf and the capture of 75 prisoners. 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.