The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade Edward L. Pratt (ASN: 32942775), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 254th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 17 March 1945, in the vicinity of Ensheim, Germany. Technician Fifth Grade Pratt, a Medical Aid Man, accompanied Company E in the attack on the Siegfried Line. When the company was forced to withdraw, Technician Fifth Grade Pratt elected to remain in the captured pillbox aid station with the wounded men. The next morning, he made his way through enemy lines to summon assistance. The magnificent courage and outstanding gallantry under fire of Technician Fifth Grade Pratt reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.