The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Nicolas Pascual (ASN: 0-1297773), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Germany. During fighting around Zweibrucken, Germany, the afternoon of 20 March 1945, First Lieutenant Pascual came under direct 88-mm. fire while reconnoitering for 81-mm. mortar positions. Disregarding this fire, he continued forward alone 50 yards and when he came under heavy small arms fire from the 88-mm. crew, he opened fire with his M-1 rifle, killing two at a 300 yard range. Continuing toward the gun while it dueled with an American tank, he charged, knocked down, and captured its crew of three just in time to prevent spiking of the weapon. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Pascual, 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.