The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant] Elmer W. Oswald (ASN: 37603290), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 274th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division, on 3 and 4 March 1945. When his platoon leader assumed command of his company, and other non-commissioned officers of the unit were wounded, Staff Sergeant Oswald personally led the 3d Platoon in the assault on Styring Wendel, France. On many occasions during the clearing of the city, he courageously exposed himself to heavy artillery and small arms fire in order to direct the operation of his platoon. His gallant devotion to duty inspired his men and greatly contributed to the success of his company’s mission.