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 John W. Skiffington (ASN: 6872139), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, on or about 12 July 1943. After having been directed to withdraws from an untenable position, Private Skiffington ran forward in the face of intense enemy fire to the aid of a wounded comrade and brought him to a place of safety. 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.