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), [then Second Lieutenant] Ernest W. Van Winkle (ASN: 0-1307887), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the Company B, 48th Armored Infantry Battalion, 7th Armored Division, in action in Belgium, from 19 to 25 January 1945. First Lieutenant Van Winkle’s gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 7th Armored Division, and the United States Army.