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 Private First Class Herman J. Leitner (ASN: 36244526), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 315th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 3 July 1944 in France. When his patrol was attempting to maneuver into positions of cover from heavy machine gun fire, emanating from concealed positions in a village, Private Leitner volunteered to cover the movement with an automatic rifle. He engaged the enemy despite the fact that he was entirely exposed to their fire, and was mortally wounded during the action. Despite his wounds he continued to fire until all his comrades had reached positions of safety when he finally succumbed. His courageous gallantry and his devotion to his comrades and his duty reflect the highest credit both upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.