The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel Georges J. Guillebaud, Army of France, for gallantry in action while serving as Deputy to the Medoc Brigade, 23d Infantry Division, Army Detachment of the Atlantic, at the beginning of Operation INDEPENDENCE on 17 and 18 May 1945. Colonel Guillebaud distinguished himself repeatedly by his courage and devotion to duty. While personally leading elements of the brigade in attacks south of Soudac on 17 May, and in the Verdom area on 18 May, Colonel Guillebaud set a superb example for the troops under him by his disregard for danger while under heavy enemy fire.