The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Second Lieutenant] Alvin S. Reed (ASN: 0-1324951), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, France, 1 October 1944. The 1st Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, was engaged in activity against the enemy in the vicinity of ****. Enemy forces were located within the village, and it was of vital importance that information be obtained as to the enemy strength, dispersions and armament. Lieutenant Reed, a platoon leader, voluntarily led a ten-man patrol with the mission of entering **** and obtaining the necessary information. That night, during hours of darkness, he entered **** and stealthily made a reconnaissance of the vicinity. While so engaged, Lieutenant Reed, assisted by his patrol, captured three enemy soldiers and gagged them to prevent an outcry that would warn other enemy in the vicinity. No casualties were incurred on this mission, and all patrol members returned to the battalion command post with the necessary information. Lieutenant Reed’s leadership, courage and resourcefulness in the successful accomplishment of a dangerous mission, constitute such gallantry in action as to reflect high credit upon his character as an officer.