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 Staff Sergeant Luie M. Plummer (ASN: 38297536), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 143d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action on 21 September 1944 at the Moselle River, France. When a heavily manned enemy observation post halted the forward elements of the assaulting company during the Moselle River crossing, Sergeant Plummer secured a .50 caliber machine gun and courageously braved heavy, close-range small arms and automatic weapons fire to advance to a point approximately 250 yards from the hostile position. Directing rapid and accurate bursts of fire at the observation post, he continued manning his gun until the enemy indicated a desire to surrender. Covering the position with his carbine, Sergeant Plummer boldly advanced to capture 32 Germans and found that 16 had been killed by his effective fire. His gallant and aggressive actions enabled the forward elements to secure a vitally important bridgehead which played an essential role in later attacks. 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.