The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Chester Giles (ASN: 37065104), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 242d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 16 April 1945 near Perbach, Germany. When his patrol was ambushed by a strong enemy force, Sergeant Giles immediately directed the movement of men and vehicles to cover. Then, using the fire of his men as a protective cover he succeeded in getting the first vehicle turned around and on the road to safety. Wounded twice by small arms fire, he continued to direct the movement of vehicles until he was forcibly placed on a jeep to be evacuated. By his courageous action, the squad was enabled to withdraw from the ambush with minimum casualties.