The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Private First Class] Frederick Erben (ASN: 12022546), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943. When several members of his unit had been captured by the enemy, Sergeant Erben attempted to release them by shooting their captors. He inflicted heavy casualties upon the enemy before being compelled to withdraw. 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.