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 Meyrl L. Groninger, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with a military operation against an armed enemy while serving with Company D, 303d Infantry Regiment, 97th Infantry Division. In an assault crossing the Sieg River, in Germany, on 9 April 1945, Private Groninger, an ammunition bearer, was severely wounded in the hand and leg by enemy fire. During the next thirty hours of heavy combat, Private Groninger continued in the performance of his duties without reporting his injuries and without receiving medical attention. Only when his officers noticed that he was wounded and ordered his evacuation dir Private Groninger consent to be treated. His splendid display of willingness and gallantry reflects great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces.