The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Second Lieutenant] Wade M. Meintzer (ASN: 0-1311321), United States Army, for gallantry in action on *****, 1942, north of ****, Italy. First Lieutenant Meintzer, Platoon Leader, Company E, 2d Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, led his platoon, under cross fire of hidden snipers, across 400 yards of open terrain to reinforce First Platoon of Company E, 2d Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, whose position was in jeopardy, and by so doing the enemy was held in check and later driven off a critical terrain feature which was the objective of the enemy attack. 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.