The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Coast Artillery Corps) Leicester Y. Ryan (ASN: 0-1047762), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Battery A, *** Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion, 95th Infantry Division, on 4 December 1944, in the vicinity of Saarlautern, Germany. When First Lieutenant Ryan’s platoon was assigned the important mission of providing anti-aircraft protection for a bridge across the Saar River, First Lieutenant Ryan reconnoitered for suitable gun positions inside still embattled Saarlautern. After the reconnaissance had been made, he personally led his gun sections into positions under continuous enemy shelling. In the following two days First Lieutenant Ryan repeatedly exposed himself to German fire in order to visit his men and check the gun positions. His energetic devotion to duty contributed to the high esprit de corps in his command which was under fire from the enemy for the first time. First Lieutenant Ryan’s courageous leadership reflects distinct credit upon him and exemplifies the highest traditions of the military service.