The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) David H. Means (ASN: 0-1296883), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 333d Infantry Regiment, 84th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Belgium on 24 and 26 December 1944. While leading his company in an assault against the enemy on 24 December 1944, Captain Means, observing a company messenger who was mortally wounded, under heavy enemy weapons and armored vehicle fire, made his way to the wounded soldier, administered first aid and remained with the messenger in the exposed position until he died. On 26 December 1944, when the enemy had launched a fierce counterattack, Captain Means, with complete disregard for his own safety, personally directed the fire of his troops so effectively that the attack was repulsed and the enemy forced to withdraw. The superior quality of leadership, disdain to personal danger and exemplary conduct displayed by Captain Means present an excellent example of those soldierly qualities which are in accordance with the finest traditions of the military service.