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) Theodore Oldre (ASN: 0-887688), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 150th Engineer Combat Battalion, 1135th Engineer Combat Group, XII Corps, in action against an armed enemy on 8 – 9 December 1944, in France. Lieutenant Oldre was assigned the mission of constructing a 160-foot Double-Single Bailey Bridge across the Sarre River at Sarreinsming, France. Work started on the bridge at 1630 hours and proceeded until 1940 when intense observed artillery fire blanketed the bridge site. During the night the company made several attempts to complete the bridge but each time they were forced back by the enemy fire. Lieutenant Oldre led three small parties to the enemy side of the river to prepare abutments, set rollers, and bearing plates for the new bridge. On another occasion Lieutenant Oldre led a party with the mission to complete the placing of bracing frames on the new bridge. Work progressed until the small working party was pinned down on the bridge by enemy artillery fire. Lieutenant Oldre skillfully completed his mission and evacuated his men without casualties. The Tireless energy, initiative, leadership, and devotion beyond the call of duty of Lieutenant Oldre reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.