The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert A. Bicknell (ASN: 0-1019196), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 31st Tank Battalion, 7th Armored Division, in action in the area of Provins, France, on 27 August 1944. While proceeding to the town, the advanced guard of task force received fierce enemy fire from 88-mm. guns, mortars, “bazookas”, and machine gun emplaced therein. Second Lieutenant Bicknell was in command of four assault gun tanks. With no regard for his own safety he dismounted from his half-track and directed the fire of his guns from the top of one of the tanks. During this time he was completely exposed to a heavy barrage coming from all directions. When the tank upon which he was mounted received a direct hit from an 88-mm. gun, Second Lieutenant Bicknell was blown off by the concussion. Although sustaining three wounds, he led two surviving members of the tank crew to safety through withering enemy fire. Second Lieutenant Bicknell’s gallantry and courage have been an inspiration to his men and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.