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 (Infantry) Don C. Asbell (ASN: 1296972), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, Germany, on 28 February 1945. During the course of a tank-infantry attack against enemy positions in a wooded area near ****, Lieutenant Asbell, who was leading his rifle company forward, saw an enemy 88-mm. gun commence firing at our tanks from a position at right angles to the line of approach. Without hesitation, Lieutenant Asbell raced across fifty yards of open terrain under enemy observation and swept by enemy fire, climbed aboard a tank, and directed fire which succeeded in destroying the enemy gun. His personal bravery and quick thinking at a time of stress, prevented loss of American armor, and contributed materially to the success of the ensuing operation. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.