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 Howard L. Beach, Jr. (ASN: 36825342), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with 9th Reconnaissance Troop, 9th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 12 October 1944, in the vicinity of Zweifall, Germany. While in a defensive position, Private Beach’s company was subjected to a fierce enemy counterattack. With complete disregard for personal safety, Private Beach exposed himself to the intense enemy artillery, mortar, and small arms fire to move to a forward position and set up a defense with five other members of his platoon. Although constantly subjected to heavy enemy fire, he held his position and inflicted many casualties on the assaulting enemy forces. Private Beach’s aggressive initiative, devotion to duty, and courageous actions contributed materially to the successful repelling of the enemy attack and were a credit to himself and to the Armed Forces of the United States.