The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Field Artillery) Clarence F. Ax (ASN: 0-1167726), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Battery, 862d Field Artillery Battalion, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 15 March 1945, in the vicinity of Eschringen, Germany. Captain Ax’s outstanding courage and leadership under intense enemy rocket, artillery and mortar fire while assisting in the reorganization of an infantry battalion at a time when it was impossible to call for artillery fire because of the proximity of friendly troops, helped immeasurably in enabling the infantry to renew its advance, and take its objective. With utter disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Ax, many times walked through hostile fire in effecting the reorganization of the battalion. His magnificent courage and outstanding gallantry under fire reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.