The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Corporal Fred Brink (ASN: 39105325), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 7 June 1944, near ****, France. Corporal Brink was one of a group of men whose mission was the seizing and holding of an important bridge west of **** on the Merderet River. Corporal Brink, armed with a bazooka, was assigned the mission of stopping any tanks that might make an attempt to cross the bridge and overrun the battalion’s defenses. Shortly after getting into position, three enemy tanks followed by two companies of infantry, attempted a crossing of the bridge. In order to stop the onslaught, Corporal Brink, displaying great courage and devotion to duty, and with no regard for personal safety, leaped into the center of the road and at very close range fired point blank at the leading tank which was firing machine gun and cannon fire at him. He destroyed the first tank and opened fire on the second one, thereby blocking the road and leaving the enemy infantry so placed that the riflemen behind Corporal Brink were able to dispose of them. Throughout the action, Corporal Brink was exposed to the fire of friendly troops as well as that of the enemy. This gallant and courageous deed was in keeping with the high traditions of the Airborne Forces of the United States Army.