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 Claud F. Carlson (ASN: 37337496), United States Army, for gallantry in action on **** 1943, about five miles from *****, Italy. Private Carlson, Company E, 2d Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, under heavy rifle and artillery fire, left his foxhole and moved forward to where a soldier had tied a white handkerchief to his rifle in token of surrender, knocked down the rifle and encouraged the remaining soldiers to hold in spite of overwhelming enemy opposition. His courage and inspirational leadership were outstanding. 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.