The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Donald E. Harper (ASN: 35895364), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Germany, on 9 March 1945. Although immediate evacuation was advised, Private Harper who was suffering from multiple wounds around the face requested and was granted permission to remain with his unit, knowing that an attack against strongly defended enemy positions was imminent. A short while later he went on a combat patrol under heavy fire and was again wounded. Although in great pain, he refused evacuation until an enemy artillery barrage had lifted, so that litter bearers could make the trip in comparative safety. Private Harper’s intrepidity, tenacity of purpose, and concern for the welfare of his comrades, reflect the highest credit upon himself, his unit and the military service.