The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Clyde L. Gladden (ASN: 35701516), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 50th Armored Infantry Battalion, 6th Armored Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Zietz, Germany, on 14 April 1945. When a road block, protected by rifleman with bazookas and hand grenades, stopped their advance, Private Gladden, armed only with a rifle, advanced through the field of fire and compelled the surrender of the defending force. His gallant and aggressive leadership reflects the finest qualities of the Armored Infantryman.