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 First Lieutenant (Cavalry) Alvin W. Pagel (ASN: 0-1016871), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Troop A, 88th Armored Reconnaissance Squadron, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 28 March 1945. When one of his men was pinned down by small arms fire, Lieutenant Pagel moved his armored car to a point where he could cover the withdrawal of the man. By this action, disregarding his own safety, he placed his vehicle in line of direct fire from small arms and 20-mm. mortars. The enlisted man was able to withdraw to safety but Lieutenant Pagel was hit by rifle fire. He lived long enough to order his men to leave the vehicle and to cover them while they made their way to safety. His outstanding bravery and extreme devotion are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.