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 Earl W. Read (ASN: 39342215), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Private Read, though pinned down by small arms and automatic weapons fire, continued to operate his radio, enabling his company commander to control his company. It was necessary for him to expose himself frequently to enemy fire, which he did without regard for his own safety. On another occasion he left cover of a building under heavy enemy fire to obtain better reception and maintain communications with a task force. Later he left a covered position and completely exposed to sniper fire, transmitted instructions to supporting tanks. His courage and devotion beyond the call of duty resulted in his platoon’s success with minimum casualties. His actions reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.