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 Wendell Wiley Wolfenbarger (ASN: 37742173), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 328th Infantry Regiment, 26th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Berle, Luxembourg, on 12 January 1945. During operations near Berle, on 18 January 1945, Sergeant Wolfenbarger, a Company G assistant squad leader, led a small reconnaissance patrol forward of the company line to secure information as to the enemy’s strength and disposition. Guiding his patrol over an open field, he placed his men into advantageous positions to give him protective fire as he went forward alone. After obtaining accurate information as to the hostile positions, Sergeant Wolfenbarger rejoined his companions. As he and his men were re-crossing the open field, they were detected by the enemy and engaged them in a fierce fire fight. Ordering his men to withdraw, Sergeant Wolfenbarger courageously remained in position and maintained covering fire on the foe. Although his men managed to rejoin the company safely, Sergeant Wolfenbarger was fatally wounded by enemy fire and died on the field. His unusual courage under fire and aggressive spirit reflect the highest credit upon Sergeant Wolfenbarger and the Armed Forces of the United States.