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) Fred N. Gonder (ASN: 81309546), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 9 July 1944, in France. During an advance, First Lieutenant Gonder’s unit was assailed by a fierce enemy counter-attack. Intense enemy fire in the sector caused disorganization and elements of adjacent units wavered and began to withdraw in confusion. He immediately went forward and rallied the troops, repulsing the enemy attack, and initiating a renewal of the advance. First Lieutenant Gonder’s intrepidity in the face of overwhelming resistance, his leadership, and determination, resulting in the loss of his life, reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.