The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Lowell A. Drudge (ASN: 35831524), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 11 April 1945 in Germany. When a strong enemy counterattack struck unexpectedly near Erfurt, Germany, Sergeant Drudge’s weapons platoon lost their officer, platoon sergeant, and half their men. Sergeant Drudge took charge, set up an impregnable defensive position, utilizing a section of machine guns and successfully repelled the attack. Sergeant Drudge’s outstanding bravery, gallantry, and leadership were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.