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 Sergeant [then Technician Fifth Grade] Mitchell C. Reed (ASN: 39180508), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action near ****, France, on 9 June 1944. When his unit was cut off and surrounded by overwhelming enemy forces, First Sergeant Reed unhesitatingly left his position of safety and under a curtain of flak and small arms fire, moved into an open field where he placed identification panels so that his unit’s positions could be identified to friendly planes that were bombing and strafing the entire area. Returning from the open field, he moved from position to position even though shells were bursting every few feet and he was exposed to the enemy, and with words of encouragement, inspired his men to hold their positions. This courageous and unselfish act was an inspiration to the men and reflects great credit upon First Sergeant Reed and the United States Armed Forces.