The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery) Edward Stephen Bechtold (ASN: 0-19771), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 32d Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of La Sauvagere, Normandy, France, on 15 August 1944. While engaged on a reconnaissance mission in enemy-held territory subjected to small-arms and mortar fire, Lieutenant Colonel Bechtold courageously proceeded over hazardous terrain to locate an advanced position for his battalion. Coming upon an enemy group, he ingeniously outwitted and captured a number of the foe. Lieutenant Colonel Bechtold’s gallantry and initiative contributed immeasurably to the effectiveness of his organization. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Bechtold, 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.

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 Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery) Edward Stephen Bechtold (ASN: 0-19771), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 32d Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at St. Laurent-sur-Mer, Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944. Despite intense enemy artillery, mortar, and machine-gun fire, Lieutenant Colonel Bechtold fearlessly reconnoitered strategic gun positions and guided his battalion across densely mined terrain to the selected positions. Lieutenant Colonel Bechtold’s outstanding courage, initiative, and aggressive leadership facilitated effective artillery support for infantry units and contributed immeasurably to the success of the invasion. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Bechtold, 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.