The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Louis P. Testa (ASN: 0-1285846), United States Army, for gallantry in action at the Island of Favignana, Sicily, on or about 29 July 1943. Lieutenant Testa, interpreter, Headquarters, 82d Airborne Division, accompanied Captain Gerard in a small boat from the Port of ****, Sicily, through mined waters to the Island of Favignana, west of Sicily, to demand the surrender of the Island. The Island was known to be well-fortified and strongly garrisoned, but Lieutenant Testa landed on its shore and proceeded across a heavily mined beach, exposing himself to enemy action with utter disregard for his own personal safety. By his coolness and courage in accomplishing the mission for which he had volunteered, the surrender of the Island was secured. He was thus instrumental in bringing about the termination of active resistance in Western Sicily. 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.