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 First Class Edward Lentz (ASN: 35897675), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 3d Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Belgium, on 2 January 1945. When Private Lentz heard an enemy machine gun firing upon mortar positions of his battalion, he received permission to leave the outpost he was guarding in order to attempt the destruction of the enemy emplacement. Crawling through snow-blanketed woods, he cautiously made his way forward until he located the enemy position which formed part of a strong enemy counterattack upon battalion positions. With his M-1 rifle, Private Lentz killed three enemy gunners and silenced their weapon. His gallant actions made a material contribution to the ultimate repelling of the enemy counterattack. 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.