The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade Perley W. Wheeler (ASN: 6152543), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Tank Driver with Company B, 21st Tank Battalion, 10th Armored Division, at Meckesheim, Germany, on 1 April 1945. Although severely burned, Technician Fifth Grade Wheeler braved fierce enemy fire to evacuate his wounded tank commander, refusing aid until assured of the safe evacuation of his comrade. His gallant achievement reflects great credit upon himself and the military forces of the United States.