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) Michael A. Esquivel (ASN: 0-1316282), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 21 March 1945, in Germany. First Lieutenant Esquivel and his comrades crossed the Rhine River and advanced six hundred yards into enemy territory to ascertain enemy strength and dispassion and a possible landing site for assault troops on the east bank. Although in extreme danger of death or capture during the entire period, they courageously continued on their mission and returned successfully to friendly lines with vital information which later facilitated the unit’s crossing the Rhine River. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Esquivel, 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.