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] George W. Nelson (ASN: 37438461), United States Army, for gallantry in action in northern France while serving with the 358th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division. On 8 July 1944 in the darkness of an early morning action, Sergeant Nelson and his companion heard what they believed to be to tanks approaching their lines. Knowing that no anti-tank guns were in the vicinity, they voluntarily left their protected positions and worked their way to where they had a clear field of fire covering the unprotected approach to their lines. Withholding their fire, they waited until the enemy armored vehicles approached to within thirty-five feet when they opened fire, knocking out both armored vehicles. During the entire action the enemy was sweeping the zone with small arms and mortar fire. This gallant action on the part of Sergeant Nelson is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and prevented the enemy armored vehicles from penetrating our lines.