The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Fred L. Blackhurst (ASN: 0-2010784), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 232d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 19 March 1945, near Ludwigswinkel, Germany. While holding a bridgehead with his platoon, Lieutenant Blackhurst constantly exposed himself to intense enemy mortar, artillery, machine gun and rifle fire in order to keep control and direct the fire of his platoon. He personally assaulted a hostile machine gun position and destroyed it with rifle fire and hand grenades. When ordered to withdraw, he set up a route of escape and successfully led his platoon from the area. Lieutenant Blackhurst’s outstanding leadership and courage contributed immeasurably to the successful completion of his platoon’s mission.