The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Charles L. Presley (ASN: 37401983), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 302d Infantry Regiment, 94th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Germany on 23 January 1945. While attacking a German town, direct fire from enemy tanks halted his company’s advance. Picking up an abandoned rocket launcher, Sergeant Presley, in the face of intense enemy machine gun and small arms fire, dashed to an exposed position and with three well-aimed shots, knocked out the tank. As three members of the crew attempted to escape from the disabled tank, he killed them with his rifle. His fearless action caused the enemy to withdraw and permitted the advance to continue. The gallantry, aggressiveness and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Presley exemplify the highest traditions of the military service.