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 E. P. Moranda (ASN: 0-1326100), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Rifle Platoon Commander in Headquarters Company, 38th Armored Infantry Battalion, 7th Armored Division, in action in the vicinity of St. Vith, Belgium, from 17 to 21 December 1944. With the full force of the German Winter counter-offensive striking our lines, Second Lieutenant Moranda’s machine gun platoon again and again repelled fierce enemy assaults. Inspired by his great courage and leadership, the men poured devastating volleys into the ranks of the attackers, many times waiting until hostile troops were within fifty yards of our lines in order to gain maximum effect. Through the days and nights of bitter action, Lieutenant Moranda braved heavy fire to move from foxhole to foxhole checking the positions and encouraging the troops to hold their ground. When units on the flank withdrew, Lieutenant Moranda remained in position, taking a heavy toll of dead and wounded even when completely surrounded and cut off. Second Lieutenant Moranda and the men he led were reported missing in action, but by their determined stand against heavy odds they helped slow the armored spearheads of the enemy, giving us time to mass our forces and halt the drive. Second Lieutenant Moranda’s gallant leadership and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 7th Armored Division, and the United States Army.