The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Cavalry) Sidney Zecher (ASN: 0-25685), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of Troop B, 42d Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized), 2d Cavalry Group, XII Corps, in action against an armed enemy on 14 April 1945, in Germany. While Bayreouth was being attacked by the 42d Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, and other friendly forces, Captain Zecher, in command of Troop B received the mission of proceeding around the city and blocking the exits to the east and southeast. Despite continuous opposition from numerous groups of enemy, Captain Zecher vigorously advanced his troop into the zone overcoming all enemy encountered and blocking the required roads. Despite the small force at his disposal, Captain Zecher succeeded in preventing any enemy withdrawal to the south and east and captured over 400 prisoners. During the entire action Captain Zecher was with the leading or most engaged elements of his command, in many instances his unit being under enemy fire from two or three directions. The coolness, bravery, and skill with which Captain Zecher successfully executed his mission with a small force, greatly outnumbered by the enemy, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the Military Forces of the United States.