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) Robert S. Ballard (ASN: 0-1015957), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, Germany, on 7 March 1945. When a tank of his command was immobilized during an attack, Lieutenant Ballard ordered two other tanks into position, designated their targets, then left his own tank and made his way across open ground in the face of heavy enemy fire to the disabled tank. Mounting the turret, he loaded, adjusted and fired the 76-mm. weapon, destroying an enemy anti-tank position and silencing the machine gun nest. Lieutenant Ballard’s gallant and daring actions contributed materially to the success of the unit 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.