The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery) Lewis D. Vieman (ASN: 0-22201), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 230th Field Artillery Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 15 June 1944, in France. As Commanding Officer of an Artillery Battalion furnishing support artillery for an infantry regiment, Colonel Vieman voluntarily, and with complete disregard for his personal safety, stationed himself at an observation post, subject to enemy sniper fire, in order to direct the most accurate and deadly artillery fire possible upon the enemy. Finding that he could better direct this fire from a more advanced position, Colonel Vietnam fearlessly proceeded with the assault infantry elements under constant enemy small arms and artillery fire, until he reached his most forward observer. From this vantage point and at great risk to his life, he was able to issue detailed instructions to this observer, thus obtaining greater effectiveness of the supporting artillery. Upon completion of these instructions, Colonel Vieman proceeded with the assault elements, still under enemy fire, until the objective was secured. This display of personal courage, devotion to duty, and the superior performance of the supporting artillery, due largely to the willingness of Colonel Vieman to unhesitatingly risk his life to better accomplish the mission of his battalion, materially contributed to the success of the entire operation. His aggressiveness and bravery gave increasing confidence to the attacking infantry and were a profound inspiration to his fellow offices and men. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Vieman, 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.