The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Floyd O. Swonger (ASN: 0-1017589), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 31st Tank Battalion, 7th Armored Division, in action in the area of St. Vith, Belgium, on 22 December 1944. A night attack by German infantry and tanks soon knocked out all friendly armor in the area except First Lieutenant Swonger’s tank. Although every shot brought raking small arms and cannon fire First Lieutenant Swonger kept his tank in its exposed and hazardous position and fought on to slow the enemy advance. His were the only weapons that prevented the hostile assault from breaking through our lines and falling on the rear of our defense. The great courage he displayed in continuing the fight against overwhelming odds is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.