The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Cyrus E. Kirk (ASN: 0-514366), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, Combat Command B, 20th Armored Division, in action against the enemy on 29 April 1945, at Lohhof, Germany. After ascertaining the death of his Commanding Officer from whom he had just taken orders, Lieutenant Kirk returned to his tank through heavy small arms and machine gun fire and directed the destructions of buildings sheltering the enemy. When unable to communicate by radio, he ran back with the news of his superior’s death and returned once again to his tank to cover the advance of the column. His outstanding exhibition of courage and devotion to duty show a complete disregard for personal safety in the face of grave danger. 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.