The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Edward T. Davis (ASN: 0-528470), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, in action against the enemy on 19, 28, and 29 October 1944, near Bruyeres and Biffontaine, France. Realizing that the enemy defending a farmhouse in a clearing were unaware of his platoon’s presence, Second Lieutenant Davis immediately seized the opportunity and by spirited and fearless personal leadership routed the defenders after a short firefight. Later, in the drive to effect the release of an infantry battalion surrounded by the enemy, Second Lieutenant Davis took command of his company. At daybreak he led the company forward but was halted by intense enemy machinegun, rifle grenade and bazooka fire. Giving his men orders for the attack, Second Lieutenant Davis, in the face of heavy fire successfully led an assault against the enemy. The Germans, demoralized by the attack, fled in confusion leaving eight of their dead. Reorganizing the company, Second Lieutenant Davis prepared to take “Suicide Hill”, defended by one hundred enemy troops, armed with twelve machine guns, rifle grenades and bazookas that were strategically placed to lay a screen of crossfire over the forward slope. Leading the advance of the assaulting platoons, he directed a spirited bayonet charge against the strongly fortified enemy positions. Halfway up the steep slope, with seventy-five yards to go, Second Lieutenant Davis was hit in the leg by an enemy machine gun bullet which knocked him to the ground. Heedless of his wound, he immediately arose and limping from place to place under enemy fire, directed his men until the success of the attack was assured. His courageous actions and inspirational leadership materially assisted in the successful relief of the trapped infantry battalion. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.