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 Staff Sergeant Henry J. Paz (ASN: 31407689), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 7th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 11 April 1945. Sergeant Paz’s squad was pinned down in an open field. In order that they might withdraw to safety, he remained in the open, drawing fire on himself and at the same time directing his squad to cover. He was among a number of casualties and although his wounds were the most critical, he insisted that the others be evacuated first. The bravery and extreme devotion, without thought of self, displayed by Sergeant Paz are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.