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 (Field Artillery) Alexander L. Sutherland (ASN: 0-1184956), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery B, 420th Field Artillery Battalion, 10th Armored Division, in action at Crailsheim, Germany, on 7 April 1945. Although surrounded by a large enemy force which was closing in on his observation post, First Lieutenant Sutherland, Executive Officer, courageously remained in a dangerously exposed position and directed effective fire upon the hostile force, disorganizing the attack. His gallant achievement reflects great credit upon himself and the military forces of the United States.