the President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant] Richard G. McElhiney (ASN: 33064789), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, while temporarily attached to the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, in July and August 1943. When several enemy machine guns threatened the security of his company’s position, Sergeant McElhiney, although subjected to intense fire, advanced upon the enemy, stormed these positions, and destroyed them. 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.