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 Oldrich Drahotusky, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a radio operator with the 2d Infantry Regiment, 5th Infantry Division, in action near Etampes, France, on 21 August 1944. When the forward element of his combat team was halted by intense artillery fire, Sergeant Drahotusky was expected to leave his radio and take cover. Heedless of the great danger, he continued in his position and maintained excellent and essential radio communications. His indomitable courage contributed materially to the subsequent capture of Etampes. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.