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 (Corps of Engineers) Wendell F. Helstrom (ASN: 0-1113740), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 150th Engineer Combat Battalion, 1135th Engineer Combat Group, XII Corps, in action against the enemy on 8 September 1944, in France. Lieutenant Helstrom had the mission of carrying the Infantry troops across the ***** River in assault boats. Under Lieutenant Helstrom’s supervision the boats were loaded and were started across the river. The boats were immediately subjected to enemy fire, sinking two boats. Intense bombardment was brought to bear on the embarkation strip resulting in an order being given for the Infantry to withdraw. Under Lieutenant Helstrom’s supervision, four boats went to the enemy-held shore to evacuate the wounded. Lieutenant Helstrom remained on the enemy-held shore directing the evacuation of the wounded until he was relieved. During this period he was subjected to very heavy enemy machine gun and small arms fire. The peerless leadership, devotion to duty and courage of Lieutenant Helstrom reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.