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) Charles W. Schmitt, Jr. (ASN: 0-1299634), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the *** Infantry Regiment, 83d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 27 July 1944, near *****, France. Despite heavy enemy machine gun, mortar and artillery fire, Lieutenant Schmitt after making two personal reconnaissance trips to determine the proper method of attack against strongly defended enemy pillboxes and houses, led a tank destroyer into full view of the enemy and personally directed effective fire upon the positions. Acting with inspired initiative and determination he then led the assault on the positions, captured them and thereby enabled the battalion to continue its advance. Lieutenant Schmitt’s outstanding courage, tactical ability and devotion to duty reflects great credit upon himself and the finest traditions of the military service.