The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Arthur C. Erdmann (ASN: 0-1010606), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company D, 36th Tank Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Captain Erdmann led his company in the spearhead of a task force that struck a heavily defended enemy town. Maneuvering his forces against overwhelming odds, he smashed enemy defenses and penetrated the town. During the action three tanks in which he was riding were knocked out. Each time he dismounted under fire and mounted the nearest tank to carry on direction of the company. He was seriously wounded when the fourth tank was struck by anti-tank fire. Captain Erdmann’s tactical skill and the coolness with which he employed it is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.