The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Henry L. Peterson (ASN: 0-1018916), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Germany, on 5 March 1945. Lieutenant Peterson directed the fire of his tank in destroying two enemy guns as he led his platoon to the approaches of **** where he dismounted his tank and proceeded into the town on foot to make a reconnaissance. He was fired upon by snipers, whereupon he procured a German bazooka and fired it into the house used by the snipers, effectively silencing them. Returning to his tank, Lieutenant Peterson led his tank platoon into the town. When a well-concealed anti-tank gun fired at point blank range, knocking out his tank, he jumped into a trench where he encountered six enemy soldiers. He killed one and wounded two, forcing the remainder to flee. Lieutenant Peterson covered the withdrawal of his crew to the platoon position. Although wounded while rejoining his platoon, Lieutenant Peterson secured infantry support, returned to the town, set up a defense perimeter, and directed his troops in repulsing a sharp counterattack that night. His dynamic leadership, fortitude and zealous devotion to duty honor his character as an officer and leader of men.