The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Lionel E. Pender (ASN: 17053040), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943. During a savage enemy attack, a tank had been set afire by an aeroplane crashing nearby. Disregarding he possibility of exploding gasoline and ammunition, Private Pender entered the tank and extinguished the flames. 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.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant] Lionel E. Pender (ASN: 17053040), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Belgium, on 19 January 1945. 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.