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 Earl H. Hite (ASN: 34385109), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy from 27 September 1944 to 1 October 1944, in Germany. Private Hite and a group of comrades occupied an observation post in enemy-held territory in order to secure detailed and accurate information of enemy strength and installations. Although it was necessary to go and return from the observation post at night and they were subjected to heavy enemy concentrations of artillery fire, Private Hite and his comrades never faltered. As a result of their observations artillery fire was placed on the enemy inflicting heavy casualties. His 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, his unit, and the United States Army.