The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Homer W. Kurtz (ASN: 0-1306602), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Germany, on 15 and 16 April 1945. As his company advanced across the **** River toward **** against increasingly bitter enemy resistance, Captain Kurtz made his way forward under intense fire, personally took charge of the spearhead platoon and, through the skillful use of fire and movement, led his troops on to the objective against numerically superior enemy forces. When a powerful enemy counterattack the following morning penetrated his lines, disrupting communications and cutting the avenue of approach for reinforcements, Captain Kurtz quickly organized and maneuvered a part of his company in a brilliantly executed attack which achieved tactical surprise and resulted in disorganization and heavy casualties among the German troops. Captain Kurtz’s intrepidity and outstanding leadership ability honor his character as an officer and leader of men.