The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Jose Valdez (ASN: 38068498), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 8th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 6 April 1945, in the vicinity of Kirchen, Germany. After the company gained high ground, the enemy launched a fierce counterattack before a complete reorganization could be effected. Sergeant Valdez, without thought for his personal safety, directed effective mortar and machine gun fire on the enemy, aiding materially in repulsing the enemy. Then leading a rifle platoon in pursuit of the enemy, he gained additional ground and captured many prisoners. Sergeant Valdez’s great courage and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.