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 [then Sergeant] Norbert W. Rowenhorst, United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 133d Infantry Regiment, 34th Infantry Division, on 4 November 1943, at Santa Maria Oliveto, Italy. In a desperate, defensive stand against a heavy enemy attack, he led a platoon of men, aiding and inspiring them to hold against the greatly superior enemy force. Placing the men for most effective use of their firepower, he maintained constant contact among them throughout the night. The next morning, as the Germans launched their attack on the defenders, he moved quickly from spot to spot, in the hail of enemy fire and explosives, to face the enemy attackers. Demonstrating exceptional courage, calm judgment, and superior leadership ability, Sergeant Rowenhorst led his unit in securing the regimental objective and in completely beating and disorganizing the almost overwhelming enemy attacking forces, making it possible for the battalion soon to take up the attack.