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 Garland Dean (ASN: 38212373), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Medical Detachment, 692d Tank Destroyer Battalion, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 4 April 1945 near Fishbach, Germany. As Medical Aid Man, Private Dean was riding in the leading tank destroyer of his platoon in an assault on the Seigfried Line when he observed a friendly tank hit and set afire by enemy artillery. Leaving his destroyer, Private Dean crawled 500 yards under artillery, mortar and small arms fire to reach the burning tank. Completely exposed to enemy fire, he climbed onto the vehicle and removed the wounded crew members. He then carried each man to cover and administered first aid. By his courage and devotion to duty he undoubtedly saved the lives of the tank crew.