The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Lawrence D. Canatsey (ASN: 0-1303459), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Normandy, France, on 15 July 1944. In the initial action which began the operation against ****, Lieutenant Canatsey was in Command of Company G, 2d Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment. As his company began to move forward, Lieutenant Canatsey, who was at the head of his men, received a severe leg wound. Despite his pain, he refused immediate evacuation, and from where he lay upon the ground, he shouted words of encouragement to his men, urging them forward. He called his executive officer to him and oriented the latter upon the situation. Only after having assured himself that his organization would not be leaderless, did Lieutenant Canatsey consent to evacuation. While en route to the aid station, the vehicle in which he rode was subjected to enemy fire and Lieutenant Canatsey was killed. The gallant actions of Lieutenant Canatsey not only proved an inspiration to his men, but are in accord with the military traditions of the United States.