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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Curtis D. Friesner (ASN: 0-1316892), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 11 September 1944, in France. Lieutenant Friesner was serving as a platoon leader with an infantry organization which was occupying a defensive position. A vehicle of a friendly organization sped through the positions defended by Lieutenant Friesner’s platoon too rapidly to be warned of the proximity of the enemy. As a result enemy machine gun fire fell on the vehicle wounding 2 of the occupants. The 3rd member of the vehicle escaped and made his way back to friendly lines. Lieutenant Friesner, as soon as he was apprised of the situation, immediately went forward and deliberately exposed himself to the hostile fire to divert attention from the wounded men so that they could make their way back to safety. Although one of the wounded men died before he could be evacuated, Lieutenant Friesner’s heroic actions resulted in one of the wounded men reaching friendly territory. 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.