The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) Frederick W. Muckenfuss (ASN: 0-1113570), United States Army, for gallantry in actin while serving with the 202d Engineer Combat Battalion, in action against the enemy on 26 February 1945, in Germany. While the infantry was fighting to clear the town of ******, First Lieutenant Muckenfuss, under heavy enemy mortar and machine gun fire, made his way through a report ed mine field to the Roer River to make a reconnaissance for an assault bridge. After selecting a suitable site, he returned to the town, reorganized his platoon which had suffered many casualties, and set out to accomplish the task. Under the inspiring leadership of First Lieutenant Muckenfuss, the platoon worked with great zeal and efficiency, completed the bridge in record time and thus eliminated the necessity for the use of assault boats which was at first contemplated. This outstanding achievement b y First Lieutenant Muckenfuss undoubtedly saved many lives during the successful crossing of the Roer River and reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.