The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Leon E. Achenbach (ASN: 13008688), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, during the period from January to April 1943. Despite intense enemy machine gun and rifle fire, Sergeant Achenbach and another enlisted man voluntarily moved forward with a machine gun and directed heavy and accurate fire on the enemy, thereby enabling their unit to complete their mission. 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.