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) Donald R. Hannibal (ASN: 0-1331284), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 318th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 11 April 1945 in Germany. On that date, during an assault near Erfurt, Germany, Lieutenant Hannibal, a rifle platoon leader, was leading his platoon over a forward slope of a hill when enemy machine gun fire forced his men to seek cover. Realizing that to remain in such an exposed position would bring disaster, Lieutenant Hannibal remained on his feet and, exhorting his men to follow him, dashed directly at the enemy position. This sudden attack surprised the enemy and made it possible for the platoon to capture two machine guns, fifteen enemy soldiers, and to continue with their assault toward the objective. Lieutenant Hannibal’s courage, aggressive leadership, 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.