The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Leroy E. Zwiebel (ASN: 36244008), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 315th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division, on 24 March 1945, in Germany. Approaching the last of four bridges over the Rhein-Herne Canal, Private Zwiebel in the face of enemy machine gun fire, crossed the bridge to check for demolition charges. After taking cover from the fire he observed the approach of an enemy demolition vehicle with two occupants. With complete disregard for his own safety he stood up to fire on the enemy crew so that the bridge might remain intact. With deadly fire he killed both occupants of the vehicle, which was later found to have held a very large amount of demolition charges. The great courage exhibited by Private Zwiebel reflects highest credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.