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 Urban P. Avila (ASN: 3751264), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 58th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 8 April 1945. Sergeant Avila displayed outstanding leadership as a squad leader. During an attack, he directed fire on a machine gun position, forcing the gunners to withdraw. He then led an assault on an enemy tank, forcing its withdrawal. After reforming his forces, Sergeant Avila led a five-man patrol in search of enemy tanks. Ambushed, he deployed his forces in a manner to cover complete withdrawal. His display of courage and leadership inspired his men and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.