The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Michael Cronin (ASN: 32637191), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the *** Engineer Combat Battalion, in action against the enemy in France on 11 November 1944. Corporal Cronin was directing the debarkation of assault boats during a night infantry crossing of the Moselle River at Thionville. The river was flooded from a siege or rainy weather, the current swift and treacherous, and the water icy from the cruel November temperatures. Enemy shell-fire pounded the bank and greatly endangered his life, but Corporal Cronin continued at his mission. His watchful eye suddenly picked up an assault boat that was overturned by the raging waters, and from the illumination of German flares he could see one man floundering in the water and crying for help. Instantly, without thinking of his own safety, Corporal Cronin plunged into the frigid river, swam to the drowning soldier and succeeded in bringing him safely to shore. Refusing to be evacuated after his severe exposure to the cold, Corporal Cronin donned dry clothing and remained at his task. His gallantry, concern for the welfare of his comrades in arms and his outstanding devotion to duty, reflect great credit upon himself and the Army of the United States.