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 Elmo F. Cromer, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 45th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 28 July 1943, west of San Stefano, Sicily. When the need for ammunition, food and water for his company became desperate, First Sergeant Cromer organized carrying parties to relieve the situation. Alone, he worked unceasingly without sleep or rest for a 30-hour period carrying heavy loads over a two-mile route, up steep and mountainous terrain, all while exposed to enemy snipers and hand grenades. At times he was forced to drop his load of supplies and eliminate these snipers at point-blank range. But he maintained a continuous flow of supplies to his company until the enemy was driven from its positions. The driving leadership and unfaltering courage of Sergeant Cromer’s gallant action exemplifies the high traditions of the military service.