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 Ernest R. Metz (ASN: 34795326), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 13 January 1945, in Belgium. When several casualties had been suffered as a result of enemy fire, Private First Class Metz risked his life to go to the aid of the wounded man while the area was still subjected to heavy mortar and small arms concentrations of fire. As a Result of his courageous actions, seven comrades were saved from death. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Metz, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.