The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Baney E. Sprawls (ASN: 38521070), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 24 March 1945, in Germany. Staff Sergeant Sprawls’ platoon was pinned down by fierce enemy fire during an attack against enemy-held positions across the Rhine River. Realizing that his platoon was in a precarious position, Staff Sergeant Sprawls made his way to the head of the platoon. Seriously wounded by the enemy fire, he continued forward and threw smoke grenades at the enemy. Through his initiative the platoon was able to continue on to its objective with a minimum of casualties. His gallant stand at great personal risk reflects great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.