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 [then Private] Edward J. Grzela (ASN: 36173166), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 20 February 1945 in Germany. Near Enzen, Germany, while making a reconnaissance of a bridge, Private First Class Grzela was fired on by an enemy machine gun. Immediately, he jumped into the water, worked his way downstream under severe fire, and threw a grenade that destroyed the position and allowed his company to advance safely. Private First Class Grzela’s courage, aggressiveness, and sincere 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.