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 (Infantry) Virgil F. Carmichael (ASN: 0-1286070), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 21 September 1944, at ****, Holland. A member of one of the foremost boatloads of the initial wave in the hotly-contested Waal River crossing, First Lieutenant Carmichael, Battalion S-2, was given the mission, upon reaching the enemy side of the river, of organizing the beach. With total disregard for his personal safety, First Lieutenant Carmichael, in spite of the deadly artillery and small arms fire which blanketed the beach, moved calmly from one boat to another, orienting the men and officers, guiding them to covered approaches, administering first aid to the wounded and organizing crews for essential return trips. The courage, initiative and judgment displayed by First Lieutenant Carmichael at a most critical time reflect the highest traditions of the Airborne Forces of the United States Army.