The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert J. Huddlestone (ASN: 0-1013173), United States Army, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed enemy as a member of Company B, *** Tank Battalion, 11th Armored Division. On 16 January 1945, Lieutenant Huddlestone, while serving as Executive Officer for his unit in an attack near *****, observed the company commander’s tank had been disabled and the Commanding Officer was being evacuated. Under extremely heavy anti-tank and artillery fire, Lieutenant Huddlestone left his tank and proceeded to reorganize the company, walking from tank to tank he reassured his men and directed them to more favorable positions. Twice he was knocked to the ground by concussions from heavy artillery shells, which fell only a few feet from him but with fearless devotion to duty, he continued with his mission. During this action he assisted in the evacuation of two enlisted men who were killed by shell fire. By his complete devotion to duty, courage and leadership, he contributed to the saving of many lives and the maintenance of the high fighting efficiency of his company. His actions exemplified the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States.