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) Charles G. Paine (ASN: 0-2010796), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 242d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 21 April 1945, at Gunzenhausen, Germany. When his platoon was sent several miles ahead of the battalion to ascertain road conditions and the location of enemy elements, Lieutenant Paine, usually acting as first scout, led the patrol through several towns on the route. As the platoon boldly proceeded down the main street of Gunzenhausen unrecognized by the enemy because of poor visibility, Lieutenant Paine noticed a bridge still intact. Rushing forward, the patrol overwhelmed the guards and disconnected demolition charges attached to the bridge. Lieutenant Paine then posted security guards and led his unit in the repulse of several enemy attacks until relieved. Lieutenant Paine’s alertness and superior leadership facilitated the battalion’s advance without a single casualty to his patrol.