(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Private First Class Earl F. Clinkenbeard, United States Army, was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 36th Infantry Division during the invasion of Italy during World War II. Private First Class Clinkenbeard was in a mortar unit and, when time came to go into action it was discovered that the sights were in the hands of another soldier. Without benefits of sighted Private First Class Clinkenbeard fired and knocked out several German 88s. 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.