The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Orlyn H. Folkestad (ASN: 0-887318), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 25 February 1945, while serving with the 743d Tank Battalion (Separate), attached to the 30th Infantry Division, in Germany. Lieutenant Folkestad displayed great heroism by going, despite being in a dazed condition from being blown out of his vehicle by concussion, through murderous small arms and direct anti-tank fire to the aid of a wounded gunner. After giving him first aid, Lieutenant Folkestad again went through the enemy fire to aid other wounded men and remained with them until they were evacuated. His gallant actions saved the lives of several of his comrades. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Folkestad, 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.