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 Hans J. Bley (ASN: 12007831), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from April through August 1943. When enemy tanks attacked his battalion and severed vital communication lines, Private Bley proceeded to restore these lines despite grave danger of enemy fire. Later, when a fellow soldier was wounded, he crawled to his aid and evacuated him to safety through intense artillery bombardment. 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.