The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Azel J. Taggart (ASN: 0-417276), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division in action against the enemy in Sicily, on or about 25 July 1943. Lieutenant Taggart and a small group of men were first to reach their company’s objective. He continually exposed himself to heavy enemy fire, organized the group, and supervised the destruction of remaining enemy forces. Lieutenant Taggart’s quick thinking and sterling leadership enabled other elements of his company to reach this objective. 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.