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 Paul J. Helmick (ASN: 35021136), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 753d Tank Battalion, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 9 April 1945, in the vicinity of Lebenbacherhof, Germany. Private First Class Helmick’s tank was moving back to the rear to reload with ammunition, when he and two companions observed four seriously wounded infantry soldiers about 100 yards away. Dismounting in the face of enemy small arms fire, Private First Class Helmick and his two companions placed the wounded infantrymen on the tank and, under continued enemy fire remained with the wounded men on the outside of the tank and safely evacuated them to the aid station. The magnificent courage and outstanding gallantry under fire of Private First Class Helmick reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.