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 Keith R. Veglahn (ASN: 17140416), 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 4 January 1945 in Luxembourg. On that date, while his gun position was being subjected to intense enemy artillery fire, Technician Fifth Grade Veglahn, voluntarily and with utter disregard for his own personal safety, surveyed the newly formed craters for a detailed shelling report. While thus engaged twelve more shells landed, nearly disrupting all communications with the Fire Direction Center. Realizing that the battery could not function without communications he further demonstrated personal bravery by repairing the breaks in the wires under continuous heavy shelling, thereby enabling the battery to deliver fire missions in support of the infantry. The courage, resourcefulness, and devotion to duty displayed by Technician Fifth Grade Veglahn were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.