The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Leo A. Brausch (ASN: 0-1322849), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy from 18 April 1945 to 19 April 1945, in Germany. First Lieutenant Brausch immediately reconnoitered an enemy anti-tank position which was delivering effective fire into the flank of his battalion. On another occasion, he destroyed a machine gun before it could fire on friendly troops. First Lieutenant Brausch then led his men in defending their positions during the night against all attempts of the enemy to infiltrate and to cause damage. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Brausch, 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.