The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Victor Salem (ASN: 0-1296625), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division on 7 August 1944, in France. When a large enemy patrol succeeded in breaking through our front lines and created a diversion which threatened our rear installations, Captain Salem took one man and voluntarily went on a search for them. When he located the enemy, he opened fire although considerably outnumbered, and fought with such aggressive spirit that the patrol was completely broken up. Captain Salem killed three of the enemy, wounded four, and only one was able to escape. This daring action neutralized a serious threat to rear installations. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Salem, 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.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Victor Salem (ASN: 0-1296625), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division on 18 November 1944, in Germany. Captain Salem was commanding an infantry company during an attack against the enemy. When heavy enemy artillery fires were placed in the area, Captain Salem aggressively led his men forward, reaching their objective within a few minutes. Many lives were saved by his initiative and courageous skill under fire, for he had led them in such rapid advance that the enemy artillery shells were dropping behind them. When the objective was reached, the enemy launched a counterattack which threatened the newly captured position, deploying his men and guns so effectively that the counterattack was repulsed. Fifteen enemy soldiers were killed and the others were forced to withdraw. The tactical skill, superior leadership, and outstanding devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Salem reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces.