The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), [then Captain] Harry W. Hughes, United States Army, for gallantry in action near Grammiechele, Sicily. While in command of Company A, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, on 14 July 1943, the unit was subjected to intense small-arms, tank automatic weapons, and artillery fire from a strong enemy position. Observing that one of his platoons was breaking and other personnel faltering under the heavy fire, he moved among the men organizing an attack. Leading the company assault, he was painfully wounded in both legs and right arm, but refused evacuation until he had reorganized his unit on its objective. Colonel Hughes’ heroic action was an inspiration to his comrades and reflects great credit on himself and the Army of the United States.