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 Russell J. Kubiak (ASN: 36981537), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 232d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action from 9 March to 12 March 1945 near Reipertswiller, France. Private Kubiak was a member of a three man reconnaissance patrol that remained behind the German lines for three days, securing detailed information concerning enemy activity and dispositions. Observing from positions, in several instances within ten yards of the enemy, the patrol located two hostile road blocks, two machine guns, six mortars, a 105-mm. Howitzer, an ammunition dump, two bivouac areas, several command posts and dugouts, and numerous installations of various types. On retracing part of its route, the patrol discovered recent evidence of heavy traffic and newly laid telephone lines, freshly dug foxholes, a trip-flare, and a trail used by the enemy and apparently clear of mines. Private Kubiak’s action and skillful reconnaissance was an important factor in obtaining information of vital importance to our plans and anticipated operations and is worthy of the highest praise.