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) Emil H. Schimpf (ASN: 0-1309968), United States Army, for gallantry in action from 17 September 1944 to 20 September 1944, at ****, Holland. First Lieutenant Schimpf, platoon leader, Company B, 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, took his platoon into enemy territory to seize and hold an important bridge. During the attack they came under heavy sniper and machine gun fire. With disregard for his own personal safety, First Lieutenant Schimpf was always in front of his troops and led a successful assault. On 20 September, four companies of German paratroopers supported by mortars and heavy guns attacked and took ****. His platoon led the counter attack to drive out the enemy. During the entire fighting, First Lieutenant Schimpf was ahead of his men and led the attack on vastly superior forces. Time and time again he exposed himself to enemy fire to help the men of his platoon. At one spot, he single-handedly wiped out an enemy machine gun nest. His gallant and exemplary leadership helped materially in the recapture of the town, one of the most vital areas in the entire defensive sector. 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.