The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Corporal] Hugh W. Craft (ASN: 33648562), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Dessau, Germany, on 22 April 1945. When assault elements were impeded by an intense machine gun and small arms concentration from a strongly-fortified enemy emplacement, Sergeant Craft, with utter disregard for personal safety, courageously crossed perilous terrain to an exposed vantage point. Then, crawling within range, he fearlessly directed a well-placed grenade, destroyed the hostile strongpoint, and captured a large number of prisoners. His gallant actions and outstanding initiative were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.