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 Eugene H. Mueller (ASN: 36482619), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. Near Holtzwihr, France, on 27 January 1945, during an early morning attack in which enemy counter-offensive action forced a limited withdrawal, Private First Class Mueller and another soldier elected to remain in position. Continuing their fire with devastating effect while enemy infantry approached to within 200 yards and hostile tank and artillery shells exploded within 10 yards of them, these two 81-mm. mortarmen held off the counterattack for one half hour. In the pause which they won, rifle platoons reorganized, renewed the attack and regained the offensive. His gallant actions 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 and the United States Army.