The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Forest L. Penny (ASN: 0-887680), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 22 and 23 December 1944 in Luxembourg. Lieutenant Penny, serving as a platoon leader of a rifle company, was slightly wounded by enemy fire in an assault on a strongly fortified town. Applying first aid to himself, he assumed command of the company when the commanding officer became a casualty, organizing the defense of the portion of the town seized, and continuing in the advance. On the following day, despite heavy enemy automatic and small arms fire, Lieutenant Penny successfully journeyed over a hazardous route on two occasions to report to the Battalion S-2 and S-3 Officers the status of the company and assist in the evacuation of wounded personnel and fifty enemy prisoners. His bravery, initiative, and loyal devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.