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 Henry J. Klee (ASN: 32264499), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 20 December 1944, near ****, Belgium. Corporal Klee, Assistant Squad Leader, was advancing with his squad to attack a strongly held enemy roadblock. When he was 400 yards away the enemy opened fire, pinning down the entire squad. At this crucial moment, Corporal Klee jumped to his feet and dashed forward into the intense direct fire, calling on his squad to follow. At close range he opened fire on a flak-wagon, forcing the crew to abandon their vehicle. Corporal Klee was hit in the leg and head. Badly wounded and unable to move, he shouted instruction to the men following, enabling them to advance and destroy another enemy flak-wagon without further casualties. 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.