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 Hiram E. Early, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Mariadorf, Germany, on 18 November 1944. Two hand grenaded were thrown at Staff Sergeant Early by enemy troops were hidden in a large building. Staff Sergeant Early deliberately exposed himself in order to draw the fire of the Germans from open windows so the squad he was leading could fire on and overpower them. As a result of his action, his men succeeded in storming and taking the position. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Staff Sergeant Early, 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.