The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Louis A. Buda (ASN: 35330190), 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 16 September 1944 in France. Technical Sergeant Buda, while leading his 81-mm. Mortar Platoon through a saddle in a prepared defensive position, discovered three abandoned vehicles loaded with 81-mm. mortar ammunition. Although this terrain was under enemy observation who was concentrating artillery fire around the vehicles, Technical Sergeant Buda and two companions protected the movement of the platoon by fire and then drove the trucks to the mortar positions where the ammunition was used effectively in firing previously prepared data for the 81-mm. mortars. The courage, resourcefulness, and loyal devotion to duty displayed by Technical Sergeant Buda were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.