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 [then Private First Class] Herman W. Ahrlich (ASN: 31248685), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 105th Engineer Combat Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 7 July 1944, in France. Sergeant Ahrlich was a member of a unit given the mission of constructing a footbridge to facilitate the movement of infantry troops into enemy territory. While the bridge was under construction, intense enemy fire covered the area, felling several of his comrades. When his non-commissioned officers became casualties, Sergeant Ahrlich unhesitatingly assumed the responsibility of reorganization, and although subjected to continuous observed enemy mortar and artillery fire, directed the successful completion of the bridge, enabling the infantry to continue the assault. The inspiring leadership, fortitude, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Ahrlich reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.