The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Bobby J. Stahlman (ASN: 0-926227), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 253d Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 18 February 1945, in the vicinity of Kleinblittersdorf, Germany. During an enemy counterattack and when mortar fire was impossible because of poor visibility and infiltration, Lieutenant Stahlman, forward mortar observer, without regard for personal safety, took charge of approximately twenty-five rifle troops and personally led them against the enemy repulsing the counterattack, capturing seventy prisoners and killing thirty of the enemy. The magnificent courage and outstanding gallantry under fire of Second Lieutenant Stahlman reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.