Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] Edward H. Lienhart (ASN: 0-355003), United States Army, for gallantry in action in northern France while serving with the 2d Battalion, 359th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division. On 5 July 1944 when his company was held up by heavy enemy fire and one of the platoons was greatly depleted by losses, Captain Lienhart worked his way along the hedgerow alone, rounded up twelve prisoners including one officer and brought them back to the company. Turning them over to the guard to take them to the rear, he returned to the hedgerow again alone and returned some time later with six prisoners including another officer. Sending them to the rear, he sought out three friendly tanks which had retired to avoid anti-tank fire and directed them toward this position which resulted in the capture of the strong point and made it possible to advance his company.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    359th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    90th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 19 & 20, 1944

    Headquarters, THIRD U.S. Army, General Orders No. 216 (August 18, 1945)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Infantry) Edward Ralph Lienhart (ASN: 0-355003), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 2d Battalion, 359th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Chambois, France, on 19 and 20 August 1944. Captain Lienhart’s outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 90th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.