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 Private First Class Clifford G. Carlson, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 414th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Holland on 6 November 1944. On that date, two platoons attacked across 500 yards of level, marshy ground and were pinned to the ground by a heavy barrage of mortar, artillery and grazing machine gun fire, which inflicted numerous casualties and destroyed all communications between the platoon leaders and the commanding officer of the company. Upon learning that effective counter measures could not be taken until the exact location of our troops and disposition of the enemy forces were known, Private Carlson volunteered to work his way forward and obtain the essential information. At great risk to his life and in the face of heavy fire, using all available cover, he slowly crawled from position to position, noting the number and location of the casualties and positions of the enemy automatic weapons. With complete disregard for his personal welfare, he crawled about the area contacting the leaders of the pinned down platoons and learned their contemplated actions. After obtaining the desired information, Private Carlson returned across the fire-swept terrain to the location of his commanding officer. As a result of his heroic action, the leading assault platoons of the company were able to withdraw under the cover of artillery and mortar fire, and litter bearers were able to evacuate all wounded men. At great risk to his life, Private First Class Carlson displayed a personal valor and a devotion to duty and to his comrades that exemplify the highest traditions of the armed forces of the United States.