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 Morten W. Nielsen (ASN: 37547972), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 26 March 1945, in Germany. Private First Class Nielsen gallantly remained in an exposed observation post to direct mortar fire on the fiercely counterattacking enemy despite two direct hits on his position and a hail of enemy fire. By his heroic efforts, he directed the mortars in knocking out a self-propelled gun, a vehicle, and killing or wounding numerous enemy. Private First Class Nielsen materially aided in repulsing the dangerous counterattack. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Nielsen, 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.