The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Edward L. Sprague, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Division Artillery, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 12 April 1945, in Germany, During a reconnaissance flight over enemy territory, First Lieutenant Sprague detected enemy troops and dove toward the group in an unarmed observation plane, and strafed the enemy with his pistol. His gallant action warned friendly troops of the presence of the enemy, enabling them to advance and take numerous prisoners. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Sprague, 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.