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 Lloyd E. Blackburn (ASN: 33422766), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 692d Tank Destroyer Battalion, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 12 April 1945 at Alitzhaim, Germany. When heavy direct enemy fire was placed on the destroyers of his platoon, knocking out one vehicle and injuring its Gun Commander and threatening the remainder of the platoon, Private Blackburn jumped out of his destroyer and under intense hostile fire, guided the driver in placing it in a covered position. The quick thinking and intrepid courage exhibited by Private Blackburn were responsible for the safety of the tank destroyer and the members of its crew and are worthy of the highest praise.