The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Arnold A. Empson (ASN: 32254867), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 27 December 1944, near ****, Belgium. Corporal Empson, Bazooka Gunner, demonstrated great initiative and aggressiveness during a patrol action behind enemy lines. The patrol had advanced approximately one mile into hostile territory when it observed an enemy group entrenching on a hillside and was immediately engaged with rifle and machine gun fire. Corporal Empson, in the face of intense small arms fire, moved to an exposed position, knocked out one of the machine guns with his bazooka and by fire and movement drew the fire of the other gun, allowing the patrol to disengage itself without casualties and continue its mission This conspicuous bravery and exemplary performance of Corporal Empson was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Airborne Forces.