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) Charles William Koburger, Jr. (ASN: 0-516373), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Armored Division on 3 November 1944, in the vicinity of Torre de Nerone, Italy. Company B of an armored infantry battalion was subjected to its sixth and most severe counterattack by the enemy in a five-day period. The enemy began an artillery preparation upon the company’s position which lasted approximately two and one-half hours. During the barrage the company commander was wounded and evacuated. First Lieutenant Koburger, realizing the seriousness of the situation, immediately assumed command of the company and made preparation to reoccupy the most forward positions as soon as the enemy artillery lifted. At the end of the enemy barrage, First Lieutenant Koburger immediately led his company into the most forward positions where they were ready for the enemy infantry who began attacking almost immediately. First Lieutenant Koburger’s tactical knowledge of the situation and his ability to command and inspire his men by personal example were largely responsible for the company’s repulsing the enemy attack and holding its position. First Lieutenant Koburger then reorganized the company and placed it into a defensive position. He supervised the repair of broken machine guns, ordered the wounded evacuated, made contact with headquarters to report on the situation, and requested reinforcements. His aggressive leadership, unhesitatingly exposing himself to artillery and small arms fire, was such a definite inspiration to his men that they followed him without a command. The gallantry, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Koburger reflect great credit on him and the armed forces and is worthy of the highest praise.