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 Paul L. Childress (ASN: 35462883), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 14 September 1944 in France. In preparation for a hostile counterattack near Bezaumont, France, Private First Class Childress voluntarily patrolled enemy positions, despite intense danger of sniper fire, and returned with accurate information which resulted in the complete destruction of an enemy artillery battery. The courage, devotion to duty, and bravery under fire displayed by Private First Class Childress were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.