The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Private First Class] Ernest E. Boyce, Jr. (ASN: 36905010), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Germany, on 29 March 1945. When his platoon leader, who was well ahead of his platoon, was pinned to position by enemy machine gun and rifle fire which had halted the advance of his company and forced them to withdraw, Sergeant Boyce remained in position for three hours, delivering effective fire with his automatic rifle, killing three Germans and frustrating enemy attempts to capture the officer. By his gallant actions, Sergeant Boyce saved his officer from death or capture, and made the continued advance of his company less perilous. 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.