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 Sergeant Paul E. Wilt, United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 4th Armored Division in France on 31 July 1944. On that date, without regard for personal safety and using his own initiative, he advanced through enemy fire and artillery barrage and destroyed the crew of a 75-mm. antitank gun with hand grenades. This gun was blocking the road that later gave the company a commanding position. Sergeant Wilt also gave creditable assistance in keeping the company organized and by doing so, casualties were kept to a minimum. 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.