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) Edward K. Hum, Jr. (ASN: 0-1322031), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, France, 12 September 1944. When Companies A and C, 134th Infantry Regiment, drove the enemy from *** Hill and occupied this high ground, the enemy counterattacked after dark, mortally wounding the commanding officer of Company A. Lieutenant Hum, Executive Officer of Company A, assumed command and led his troops in hand-to-hand combat with the enemy. In the darkness and confusion, the men of Company A became separated. Companies A and C then with and the enemy re-took the hill. At daylight, Lieutenant Hum discovered that he and eleven of his men remained on the high ground, surrounded by the enemy. Exercising sound judgment, coolness and outstanding leadership, Lieutenant Hum then led his men through the enemy line to the foot of the hill, reorganized the remainder of Company A and joined with the Third Battalion in an attack that successfully re-took the high ground. 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.