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 Captain (Infantry) Jacob Kopf Rippert (ASN: 0-22115), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of an Infantry Company of the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily in 1943. During an attack on enemy strongholds, Major Rippert fearlessly led his company in a savage assault. He continually exposed himself to deadly enemy fire to select more advantageous firing positions for his men. His fearless leadership and tactical skill enabled other elements of his battalion to advance with minimum opposition. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Rippert, 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.