Urban P. Avila

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Urban P. Avila (3751264), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 58th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 8 April 1945. Sergeant Avila displayed outstanding leadership as a squad leader. During an attack, he directed fire on a machine gun position, forcing the gunners to withdraw. He then led an assault on an enemy tank, forcing its withdrawal. After reforming his forces, Sergeant Avila led a five-man patrol in search of enemy tanks. Ambushed, he deployed his forces in a manner to cover complete withdrawal. His display of courage and leadership inspired his men and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.