(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) David R. Straesser (ASN: 0-1168939), United States Army, was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 385th Field Artillery Battalion, 104th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy during World War II. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) David R. Straesser (ASN: 0-1168939), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 385th Field Artillery Battalion, 104th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Germany on 2 and 3 March 1945. As the enemy launched a fierce counter-attack in strength, Lieutenant Straesser took up an exposed position in the top floor of a building and called for artillery fire on the advancing enemy. His position was immediately subjected to intense enemy small arms, mortar and artillery fire. Although shell fragments destroyed his radio and tore the map from his hands, he refused to relinquish his position, using a rifle company radio to direct and adjust artillery fire with such accuracy that the enemy assault was halted and routed. Lieutenant Straesser’s singular gallantry and fearless intrepidity in the face of great peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.