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 First Class Boyd W. Brafford (ASN: 34997374), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 318th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 6 April 1945 in Germany. On that date, the enemy launched a strong counterattack near Windave, Germany. Private First Class Brafford, on regaining consciousness after having been covered with debris when a direct hit was registered on a nearby house, heard enemy tanks approaching. As one hostile tank drew close to his position he destroyed it with one round from his rocket launcher. This act caused the others to withdraw. Private First Class Brafford then directed his rocket fire at the enemy infantry, inflicting many casualties and contributing immeasurably to their rout. The courage, aggressiveness, and sincere devotion to duty displayed by Private First Class Brafford were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.