The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Denniston Averill (ASN: 0-1012562), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 7th Armored Division Trains, 7th Armored Division, in action in the vicinity of Samree, Belgium, on 19 and 20 December 1944. First Lieutenant Averill’s 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, the 7th Armored Division, and the United States Army.