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 Harold R. Mueller (ASN: 37163737), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, from 17 to 20 March 1944. Displaying outstanding initiative and courage, Private First Class Mueller went to the assistance of a machine gun crew after its members had been wounded by a grenade and repulsed a determined Japanese attack on the position. He placed such accurate and intense fire on the assaulting enemy that they were forced to withdraw, leaving some fifteen dead in front of the strongpoint. His bravery and fidelity to duty not only prevented the position from falling into enemy hands, but saved the lives of its occupants. Subsequently, during a patrol action, Private First Class Mueller again distinguished himself by unhesitatingly going to the aid of a badly wounded comrade and effecting his rescue across fifty yards of open, fire-swept terrain. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Mueller, 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.