The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] Sam J. McAllester (ASN: 0-1301336), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 318th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 10 February 1945 in Germany. Near Biesdorf, Germany, when his company seemed halted by severe enemy fire, Captain McAllester, although dazed by a shell burst, advanced to the head of the company. The troops observing his intrepid and gallant leadership were so inspired that they advanced and destroyed all enemy emplacements and resistance by killing 70 and capturing 50 of the hostile troops. Captain McAllester’s courage 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.