The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Field Artillery) Harry H. Mattox (ASN: 0-467212), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 490th Field Artillery Battalion, 11th Armored Division. On 3 April 1945 in the vicinity of Suhl, Germany, the infantry and tank elements of the leading task force of the command were held up by heavy enemy mortar and nebelwerfer fire. Captain Mattox, an artillery liaison officer, voluntarily moved into an area subjected to intense enemy fire to establish an observation post and direct artillery fire which completely neutralized the enemy installations and positions, allowing the task force to enter and take the heavily defended town. His gallant courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.