The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class George Clifton Burbanks (ASN: 34999521), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Germany. On 10 March 1945, the First Platoon of Company B, 23d Infantry Regiment, became pinned to the ground by intense enemy machine gun and small arms fire while attacking Niederbreisig, Germany. As casualties began to mount, Private Burbanks, an automatic rifleman, unhesitatingly exposed himself and drew the enemy fire from his comrades onto himself. Before taking cover, he had fired fifteen magazines at the enemy which allowed the platoon to withdraw from under the fire and resume the attack. Private Burbanks’ selfless and daring action prevented heavy casualties in the platoon and was highly instrumental in the success of the company’s mission. 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.