Gerhard Sachs

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Gerhard Sachs, 33422474 INF, Private First Class, Headquarters Company, First Battalion, * * * Infantry Regiment for gallantry in action 16 August 1944 near St. Aygulf, France. The advance of Private Sach’s battalion was temporarily stopped by a well fortified enemy position. Private Sachs attempted to induce a German prisoner to return to his own lines and aDvise his comrades to surrender. The prisoner refused and Private Sachs decided to enter the strong point himself and attempt to convince the enemy that they should abandon their positions. Although a severe fire fight was in progress, Private Sachs accompanied by the prisoner who acted as guide, passed through an enemy mine field, entered the hostile position and convinced the German commander that he should surrender his forces. The resourcefulness and gallantry of Private Sachs resulted in the elimination of a strong obstacle to the advance of his battalion and are in keeping with the high traditions of the Army of the United States.