The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Hermas L. Holt (ASN: 37748746), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 275th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division, on 26 February 1945, in the Stiftswald, France. After three days of continuous battle, the enemy attempted a last desperate attack against the weakened lines of the 1st Battalion, Infantry. Although seriously wounded, Private Holt, realizing that his unit was sorely in need of all the fire power it could muster, refused evacuation so that he could continue the fight. Exhibiting great courage, he fought on until, wounded gain, he died on the battlefield. His gallant devotion to duty exemplifies the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.