The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Francis H. Strickler (ASN: 33633003), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Diepenlinchen, Germany, on 18 September 1944. When his unit was subjected to a bitter enemy counterattack and a platoon leader was wounded, Sergeant Strickler, with utter disregard for personal safety, courageously crossed perilous terrain and assumed command of the leaderless group. Then, despite an intense artillery, mortar, and small arms barrage, he unhesitatingly exposed himself to the withering fire, directed a successful defense of friendly positions, and, although painfully wounded, he led an attack which inflicted severe casualties and routed the hostile force. Sergeant Strickler’s gallant actions and outstanding leadership were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.