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 George E. Neidhardt (ASN: 36712198), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 7 August 1944, in France. During a strong enemy counterattack, a squad manning a road block was cut off from friendly forces. To reunite with the company, it was necessary for the men of this squad to cross an open field which was constantly subjected to intense small arms fire from the enemy. Private Neidhardt voluntarily remained behind to cover the squad in their attempt to rejoin the company. Throughout the time that the men were crossing the open field, Private Neidhardt, though drawing the full force of the enemy fire, continued to bring deadly fire on them in the defense of his men and only when he was satisfied that every member was safely back in friendly territory did he himself make the hazardous crossing. The courage and sincere devotion to duty which Private Neidhardt displayed under heavy enemy fire reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.