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 (Infantry) Edward M. Harwell (ASN: 0-494104), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On 24 April 1945, at 1630 hours, First Lieutenant Harwell, after first reconnoitering enemy positions, led his company in the attack on a hill between Binswangon and Wortingen, Germany. Despite intense machine gun and small arms fire that barely missed him, First Lieutenant Harwell, by his daring assault and skillful deployment of his men, captured twenty-one enemy, killed seven and forced an unknown number to flee, without sustaining a single casualty in his company. From his vantage point on the top of the hill, First Lieutenant Harwell then directed artillery on a battery of 88’s, knocking out six guns and killing thirteen more enemy. 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.