The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade Antonio Hernandez (ASN: 36304974), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Medical Detachment, 431st Anti-Aircraft Artillery (Automatic Weapons) Battalion, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 20 November 1944 near Haute-Neuvill, France. Entering an area which was discovered to be heavily mined, Corporal Hernandez, a Medical Aid Man, and other members of his reconnaissance party withdrew while Engineers began clearing the field. In the course of the work a mine exploded, seriously injuring one of the Engineers. Corporal Hernandez immediately entered the mine field and went to the aid of the injured man. He administered first aid and was about to carry the man from the area when another mine exploded and he too was seriously injured. His prompt and courageous act in attempting to rescue his comrade in arms was in accord with the highest traditions of the military service.