The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Vernon E. Reese (ASN: 37540890), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, Germany, on 1 April 1945. Sergeant Reese was in charge of the leading squad of his company which was attacking strong enemy positions in a group of buildings near the village of ****. After securing his initial objective, Sergeant Reese and his squad were isolated from other units of the company. While members of his squad provided covering fire, Sergeant Reese made his way forward under enemy observation and fire, reached a building which the enemy had converted into a strongpoint, and threw a hand grenade into it. He then directed the fire and movement of his troops as they continued mopping-up operations in the strongpoint and adjoining buildings, then reorganized his squad and established all-around security. Sergeant Reese’s outstanding bravery, initiative and tactical ability honor his character and training as a soldier.