The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery), [then Staff Sergeant] Eric W. Pappas (ASN: 0-1996342), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 230th Field Artillery Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 29 August 1944, in France. Second Lieutenant Pappas was serving as a forward artillery observer attached to an Infantry company which was engaged in action against the enemy. In order to deliver more effective fire, an observation post was established in advance of friendly lines. An Infantry platoon was sent as protection for the observation post. When the enemy launched a counterattack in order to destroy the observation post, heavy pressure was placed on the platoon. The leaders became casualties and the remainder of the men became disorganized and threatened to become panic-stricken. With great calmness and outstanding leadership, Second Lieutenant Pappas reorganized the platoon. All the while Second Lieutenant pappas continued to direct field artillery support which, together with the determined defenses of the platoon, broke up the enemy counterattack and inflicted heavy losses on the hostile tanks. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Second Lieutenant Pappas, 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.