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 Tony Douglas (ASN: 36498271), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the 996th Engineer Treadway Bridge Company, XII Corps, in action against an armed enemy on 23 March 1945, in Germany. The 996th Engineer Treadway Bridge Company was maintaining floats in the only existing THIRD Army bridge across the Rhine River. During a heavy air attack, one vehicle cut too short onto the bridge, missing one treadway with both wheels, thereby blocking all traffic. The driver, realizing the danger under the air attack, left the vehicle to seek cover. Private First Class Douglas, realizing the urgency of keeping the traffic rolling, and with the aid of another man, unloaded the truck, jacked it back onto the treadways, reloaded it and drove it to the other side. During the entire time, the bridge was under constant strafing from enemy planes, It was due to Private First Class Doluglas’ strong sense of duty and personal bravery that vitally needed supplies were able to continue moving forward. 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 and the United States Army.