The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery) Seward L. Mains (ASN: 0-11723), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 822d Tank Destroyer Battalion, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 24 February 1945, in the vicinity of Kleinblittersdorf, Germany. When the advance of the supported infantry was held up by violent resistance to include an extremely heavy concentration of enemy artillery, mortar and small arms fire, Lieutenant Colonel Mains went forward to the advance elements of his Tank Destroyer Battalion, established an observation post in an exposed position and personally directed effective fire against enemy strongpoints. Lieutenant Colonel Mains’ daring and leadership at points of danger contributed directly to the effective performance of his troops in combat. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.