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 Charles W. Lane (ASN: 38050660), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as an Infantry Regimental Messenger with Headquarters Company, 141st Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the bitter battle of the Rapido River crossing on 22 January 1944, in the vicinity of *****, Italy. Cover was negligible in the last 700 yards of the river approaches and the enemy laid a terrific artillery, nebelwerfer, mortar and small arms barrage on this area. Repeatedly, Private First Class Lane carried messages of command importance through this area which was made even more dangerous by the presence of mine fields, booby traps, and barbed wire. Throughout the attack he accomplished all assigned missions with exceptional fortitude and outstanding calmness. Private First Class Lane’s gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.