Harold F. Bauer

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Harold F. Bauer (39309734), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Troop A, 88th Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 20 April 1945. While on a reconnaissance patrol, Sergeant Bauer and members of the patrol sighted large numbers of enemy troops and vehicles near a heavily-defended concrete building. It was apparent that the position could b e taken only be a strong force, with the possibility of heavy casualties. Sergeant Bauer advanced alone, convinced guards their position was surrounded, and accomplished surrender of the enemy position. As a result, an enemy Lieutenant General, his staff of five officers and ninety-seven soldiers and a large number of vehicles, weapons and equipment were captured. The position was headquarters for an enemy army corps. Sergeant Bauer’s initiative, courage and devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.