The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), [then Major] Harry F. Kies (ASN: 0-361302), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 513th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 17th Airborne Division, in action against the enemy on 27 March 1945, near Lakler, Germany. Lieutenant Colonel Kies was with two leading companies of his battalion when they suddenly came under intense machine gun and rifle fire. Lieutenant Colonel Kies, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, immediately went forward, exposing himself to direct enemy machine gun and rifle fire and encouraged his men forward. His personal courage and sound knowledge of tactics were an inspiration to his men and resulted in the enemy being routed. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Kies, 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.