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 Lieutenant (Infantry) Harry L. Hicks, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 27 – 28 July 1943. After a bulldozer detachment had been ambushed in the vicinity of a ration dump with hostile resistance strong, it was necessary to bring mortar fire on located enemy positions. Lieutenant Hicks went forward to establish an observation post to conduct this fire. At great personal risk he crawled forward 100 yards into the jungle infested with snipers, established the observation post, and adjusted mortar fire on the enemy positions. While at the position, Lieutenant Hicks was constantly harassed by hostile fire, and on one occasion was within thirty-five yards of an enemy patrol. Despite his peril he continued at his task, and by his personal courage and aggressiveness contributed indispensably to the reduction of enemy resistance. 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.