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 First Class Fred Lucas, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 311th Infantry Regiment, 78th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Dedenborn, Germany, on 3 February 1945. The mission of the 1st Battalion, 311th Infantry Regiment, was to cross the Roer River and seize the enemy town of Dedenborn, Germany. An impossible hail of enemy small arms, automatic weapons, mortar, and artillery fire raked an approach to the river. Private First Class Lucas was one of thirty-six men, all of Company C, who successfully swam across the river. Upon reaching the shore, he, despite his cold, wet, and exhausted condition, continued in the assault with such fury and determination that a greatly superior force was driven from the town. Immediately following the assault, Private First Class Lucas took up a defensive position and, together with thirty-nine remaining men, held the town until relieved eleven hours later. His unyielding devotion to duty and great courage are in accordance with the highest military traditions.