The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Chaplain’s Corps) Herman L. Heide (ASN: 0-558061), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Chaplain with Headquarters, 242d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 9 January 1945, at Hatten, France. When the two front line companies of the first battalion were split by a strong German attack supported by intense fire from enemy artillery, self propelled guns and flame throwing tanks, Company C, the reserve company, was committed and drove back the attackers with heavy casualties to both sides. Upon being informed of the large number of our wounded, Father Heide personally led a group of aidmen and litter bearers to the scene. He immediately set about administering to the wounded men and evacuating them, disregarding his own safety under the continuing heavy fire. Despite a strong enemy counter-attack, Father Heide continued his gallant work, resulting in his being captured later in the day.