The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Wilfred E. Racine (ASN: 36145442), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 20 September 1943, about five miles from ****, Italy. Sergeant Racine, Company E, 2d Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, under heavy fire, carried a message to his Company Command Post, then led his own squad out to reinforce a hard pressed front line squad. Sergeant Racine, advancing ahead of his men through a clearing in the woods, was killed by enemy fire which revealed the hostile positions and enabled his squad to accomplish its mission. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.