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 Paul Thorik (ASN: 33137503), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily in 1943. During an intense artillery barrage, Private Thorik, exhibiting great courage and sound tactical knowledge, crawled through an area exposed to heavy machine gun fire and assisted his squad leader in destroying and routing a number of enemy tanks. 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.