The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Butler C. Pippen (ASN: 6369148), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 9th Reconnaissance Troop, 9th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy during the period from 15 March 1943 to 17 March 1943, in the Gafsa sector, Tunisia. Staff Sergeant Pippen was in command of a voluntary patrol of ten men who climbed to the top of Hill 900, overlooking the city of Gafsa. The patrol kept a constant watch over the city for two nights and three days observing all enemy movements in and about the city. They located seven large artillery pieces, two machine gun nests, and an enemy tank bivouac. Despite the difficult terrain and the fact that there were no supporting troops, Sergeant Pippin, with utter disregard for his personal safety, led this patrol to the point of observation and remained there until driven back by enemy infantry. This action gave our Division valuable information and permitted our troops to advance on Gafsa with the knowledge of enemy strength. 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.