The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Charles M. Reichert (ASN: 37163674), 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, on 16 March 1944. Staff Sergeant Reichert’s fearless tenacity was responsible for holding an important pillbox position after it was surrounded and subjected to intense fire by a numerically superior attacking enemy force. When a direct hit by a mortar shell killed two of his comrades and wounded three others, including himself, Staff Sergeant Reichert intensified his efforts and laid down such devastating fire that the enemy was unable to capture his position although several reached within a few yards before being killed. With his effective fighting force reduced to himself and one other soldier, Staff Sergeant Reichert never despaired but successfully held the strongpoint until relieved several hours later. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Staff Sergeant Reichert, 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.