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 Paul W. Capps (ASN: 37008593), 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 24 December 1944 in Luxembourg. In the absence of a platoon leader, Technical Sergeant Capps commanded a rifle platoon in a defensive position. During an intense enemy artillery barrage, Technical Sergeant Capps received a painful arm wound. Refusing evacuation, he rallied his comrades, and in the direct face of the raking mortar, artillery, and small arms fire, he infiltrated his platoon into positions on the right flank of the company where the enemy threatened, thereby repelling the attempted assault. During the final phases of this action Technical Sergeant Capps received additional wounds which forced his evacuation. His bravery, determination, 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.