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 [then Private] Russell D. Bell (ASN: 35840163), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division in Luxembourg, on 26 December 1944, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States. At Kehmen, Luxembourg, Private First Class Bell, although suffering a painful wound, crawled forward under intense enemy fire to rescue a wounded comrade and then carried him over a hazardous route to the aid station for medical care. Private First Class Bell’s courage and devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.