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 Harold R. Oelke (ASN: 16121016), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Troop C, 88th Armored Reconnaissance Squadron, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 30 March 1945. When a friendly tank was set fire by a direct hit Private Oelke went to the aid of the crew. Despite exploding ammunition on the burning tank and continuing enemy fire, he succeeded in evacuating the wounded to safety. Private Oelke acted without regard for his own safety, and his courage and devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.