The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Lawrence B. Bowlin (ASN: 38508626), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 36th Tank Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 9 April 1945. When his tank was hit by enemy artillery, Private Bowlin cleared himself of the wreckage. He then carried the wounded ammunition loader to the safety of a nearby ditch. Leaving this place of safety under continuing artillery and mortar fire, he returned to the tank. While attempting to reach another man still inside the vehicle he was critically wounded. His actions, without regard for his own safety, reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.