The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Norman W. Harris (ASN: 19095953), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 2d Battalion, 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against the enemy on Ponterie Ridge, Normandy, France, on 5 July 1944. Technical Sergeant Harris was Platoon Sergeant, Third Platoon, Company D, which was holding a defensive position it had occupied during the night after infiltrating through the enemy’s positions. When the Germans surprised the left flank company of the battalion by attacking from the woods in the left flank company’s rear, threatening the entire battalion’s position, Technical Sergeant Harris, whose platoon leader had just been wounded, gathered a small group of men from within his own platoon and led a daring, smashing surprise counter-attack on the attacking enemy’s flank, stunning the enemy long enough for the battalion to organize a defense to meet the onslaught. Technical Sergeant Harris, displaying the example of fine courage and initiative, rushed at the enemy’s flank, his Tommy gun spraying death to many startled Germans. With Technical Sergeant Harris as an example, the rest of his group spirited by his aggressiveness, followed, and their fire brought a tragic end to many of the bewildered enemy. This group withheld the enemy attack until the battalion was prepared to meet it on an equal basis. Out of ammunition, the group withdrew under Technical Sergeant Harris’ covering fire to the newly established defense line that their daring counterattack had made possible. Technical Sergeant Harris’ initiative and coolness in a time of crises was the determining factor in saving the battalion’s position on La Ponterie Ridge. 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.