The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain (Armor) David L. Aldinger (ASN: 0-34613), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force action while serving with the 33d Cavalry Regiment, 3d Armored Division, in action against the enemy in Germany on 17 April 1945. Captain Aldinger, a company commander, organized the defense of the command post for the Task Force when the enemy launched a counter-attack at Thurland, Germany, and attempted to capture it. He stood guard at the rear door of the command post repelling two attempts by the enemy to enter, and although seriously wounded he fearlessly remained at his post until his ammunition was exhausted. He was then captured, and in an attempt by the enemy to evacuate him in an American vehicle, the car was fired upon by other Germans and he was mortally wounded outside the town of Ragunne, Germany. Captain Aldinger’s outstanding courage and leadership reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.