Harvey O. Kolhoss

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Harvey O. Kolhoss, First Lieutenant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 79th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in January 1945, at Hatton, France. On that date, when Lieutenant Kolhoss could not establish radio contact with another unit of tank destroyers, he rushed to their location which was under heavy enemy fire. He found the platoon had suffered the loss of its leader as well as two tank destroyers. Displaying superb leadership under fire, Lt. Kolhoss immediately assumed command and in swift succession formed road-blocks with the two remaining destroyers and supervised their fire which resulted in the destruction of an enemy Mark IV tank, reorganized nearby leaderless infantry into a strong defensive line, and after the enemy had been repulsed, assisted in evacuation of the wounded. First Lieutenant Kolhoss’ outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 79th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.