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 [then Private First Class] Donald R. Blasdell (ASN: 13109900), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Troop C, 28th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized), in action against the enemy on 10 January 1945, near *****, Luxembourg. Technician Fifth Grade Blasdell, with complete disregard for his personal safety, exposed himself to enemy machine gun fire and effectively fired his machine gun from the hip, causing the enemy to seek cover. He skillfully and courageously continued to place accurate fire upon the enemy, enabling his platoon to advance, overrun and capture the opposing machine gun nest. Technician Fifth Grade Blasdell’s gallantry and cool, determined aggressiveness were inspirational to the men in his platoon and exemplify the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.