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 Kenneth Ashland (ASN: 39304955), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Reconnaissance Platoon, 5th Armored Division, in action against the enemy in France, on 17 August 1944. The reconnaissance platoon leader was in the leading one-quarter-ton truck when the enemy opened fire with machine guns and small arms. Technician Fifth Grade Ashland, who was gunner in the platoon leader’s armored car, rushed the armored cart to the front of the column, knocking out an enemy vehicle and laying effective machine gun and 37-mm. gun fire on the enemy. Enemy anti-tank and artillery fire began to fall on the platoon, but Technician Fifth Grade Ashland held his position and continued firing until the platoon leader and dismounted scouts could fall back. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technician Fifth Grade Ashland, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.