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) Jack W. Kirk (ASN: 0-407907), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa in 1943. Displaying great coolness under heavy enemy mortar and small arms fire, Lieutenant Kirk personally put two enemy machine guns out of action with rifle fire. 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.