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 First Class Kenneth S. Eggleston (ASN: 32855189), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 143d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 21 January 1945, in France. Private First Class Eggleston, with the help of a comrade, was manning a machine gun protecting the left flank of his unit when the enemy launched a counterattack with the support of six tanks. As approximately 20 of the enemy attempted to infiltrate past his position, he waited until they were within 150 yards and then opened fire, killing two of the hostile soldiers, wounding an undetermined number and dispersing the remainder of the group. Later, when relieved by a new gun crew, Private First Class Eggleston, on his own initiative, reconnoitered the area where the Germans had been seen and found two trying to escape. He immediately opened fire, wounding both men, and then, advancing further, he captured three enemy soldiers. By his courage and alertness, he aided materially in repelling the strong hostile force. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.