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 Russell E. Snyder (ASN: 33674773), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Service Battery, 313th Field Artillery Battalion, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 13 September 1944 in France. During an enemy counterattack near Bezaumont, France, when his battery was momentarily without protection, Private First Class Snyder, a machine gunner, disregarding his personal safety, opened fire on the assaulting enemy troops, knocking out of action an on-coming tank and killing all members of the crew, and was largely responsible for stopping the enemy assault. Private First Class Snyder’s courage, prodigious combat skill, 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.