The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Willard N. Young (ASN: 39827457), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 17 September 1943, about one-quarter mile from Altavilla, Italy. Private First Class Young, Company A, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action northeast of ***, on Hill ***, crawled forward of the front lines and tossed a grenade into a machine gun position. This action helped to break up an attack on his squad front. 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.