The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade Robert C. Powell (ASN: 36068599), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, Normandy, France, 11 July 1944. Technician Powell was chauffeur for his artillery battalion commander who was killed when accompanying his combat team commander on reconnaissance. Technician Powell, from his position at the vehicle at the rear, realized that heavy enemy fire was coming from an enemy strongpoint and, anticipating the requirements of his battalion commander, voluntarily procured telephone wire and ran a line 400 yards to the front and installed a telephone, acting all the while under strong enemy machine gun, artillery and mortar fire. While so engaged he discovered a wounded soldier whom he carried to shelter and of whose location he notified a medical aid man. The gallantry in action, unselfish loyalty and zeal for the success of the mission, reflects high credit upon the character of Technician Powell as a soldier and is in accord with the high traditions of the military service.