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 Lester T. Ulrich (ASN: 16052511), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the *** Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in action against the enemy. On 3 January 1945 his company was occupying a defensive sector on the regimental main line of resistance near Longehamps, Belgium, when it was attacked by fourteen enemy tanks and a company of enemy infantry. As the tanks and infantry approached, a heavy concentration of enemy mortar and artillery fire was placed on the company positions, pinning every man in his foxhole. The tanks, firing directly at the foxholes, hit and instantly killed the platoon leader. Without hesitation, Sergeant Ulrich assumed command of the platoon. Realizing that the platoon positions wee about to be overrun, Sergeant Ulrich left the comparative safety of his foxhole to encourage his men and direct their fire. By his gallant leadership the enemy attack was repulsed, and the defensive line remained intact. In repelling the enemy attack, his platoon disabled two tanks and accounted for fifty enemy killed. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Ulrich, 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.