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 Palmer Z. LaRoche (ASN: 36685307), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, France, on 27 September 1944. Private LaRoche and another machine gunner were established at a vantage point on the main line of resistance protecting the flank of the battalion position, when they observed the approach of German tanks followed by infantrymen. Private LaRoche and his companion waited until the enemy was within 100 yards of their position, then despite direct fire from the enemy tanks, placed heavy and accurate fire among the enemy force, contributing materially to the rout of this force before it reached the main line of resistance. Later that day, Private LaRoche observed an enemy artillery piece being moved into position behind a ridge 400 yards to the front, protected from small arms fire by rolling terrain. Under enemy observation and fire, he crawled fifty yards to repair communication lines which had been damaged by enemy mortar fire, then directed artillery fire which resulted in the destruction of the enemy weapon. Private LaRoche’s gallantry and courageous initiative under fire resulted in the infliction of heavy casualties among the enemy and contributed to the success of the battalion in repulsing determined enemy attacks in this sector. 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.