The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Lloyd E. Hodge (ASN; 36917809), 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 3 April 1945 in Germany. On that date, while attacking Kassel, Germany, Private Hodge, an ammunition bearer for a heavy machine gun, observed that a second gunner had been wounded and immediately he took the wounded man’s position so that the weapon could be effectively fired. An enemy rocket fell in the emplacement, wounding Private Hodge in the thigh and hip, but, disregarding his painful injuries, he aided in moving the gun to a new position, before being treated, after which he returned to duty and took command of the squad when the leader was injured. Private Hodge’s courage, initiative, and 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.