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 Claude E. Robold, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Italy on 11 February 1944. An inexperienced replacement, Private Robold volunteered for duty as an assistant machine gunner with a squad protecting his company’s left flank in the defense of a hill in the Mediterranean Theater of Action. When the enemy attacked on 11 February 1944, he alone of the crew remained unwounded and he took over operation of the weapon. Moving the machine gun to a more exposed position that offered better field of fire, he single-handedly caused heavy casualties among the enemy. Intense mortar and artillery fire on his position did not deter him from effective operation of the machinegun. He was a major factor in thwarting the enemy’s attempt to take the hill. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.