The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Technical Sergeant] David V. Cunningham (ASN: 0-2000128), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Belgium, on 2 January 1945. The enemy occupied a house from which they directed automatic weapons fire, augmented by an anti-tank gun before the house. Thus, the structure constituted a strongpoint impeding the progress of the 3d Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment. Lieutenant Cunningham seized a rocket-launcher and several phosphorous grenades and approached the building. Its walls too thick to permit effective use of the rocket-launcher, he took advantage of the battle noises, scaled the rear of the building, reached the room and dropped his grenades down the chimney. As a result of this gallant action, the enemy strongpoint was reduced and the battalion proceeded upon its mission. 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.