The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Samuel D. Durbin (ASN: 37416030), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 21 December 1944, near *****, Belgium. Private Durbin, Bazooka Gunner, when his platoon’s position was being attacked by enemy infantry supported by a half track mounting a light artillery piece, voluntarily moved to an exposed position under heavy enemy small arms fire and employed his weapon against the enemy vehicle. Private Durbin scored a direct hit on the half track and knocked it out of action. During this action, Private Durbin received wounds which later resulted in his death. His courageous act enabled his platoon to accomplish its mission and upholds the highest traditions of the Airborne Forces.