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 First Class Vincent O. Cook (ASN: 32004026), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Anti-Tank Company, 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division. On 3 August 1943, in the vicinity of Randazzo, Sicily, with complete disregard for personal safety, Private First Class Cook, while under accurate enemy fire and at the risk of his life, jumped into a half-track and threw out a burning 75-mm. smoke shell, which had caught fire from burning bits of powder in the half-track. In doing so, Private Cook sustained third degree burns on his hands. By this singular act of bravery, Private Cook undoubtedly saved the lives of six other members of the gun crew and also the half-track which was loaded with approximately 100 rounds of high explosive ammunition. His personal courage and bravery were an inspiration to all who witnessed his actions and his devotion to duty is highly commendable.