The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Brigadier General Stafford LeRoy Irwin (ASN: 0-3803), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding General of the Division Artillery, 9th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, in 1943. Placed in command of all artillery support in the Thala sector of the Tunisian line on 21 February 1943, Brigadier General Irwin arrived there after dark without prior reconnaissance and with limited information about the situation. He established his command post and observation post in front of all support and refused to quit his post even after 12 hours of terrific artillery shelling of his observation post. He accomplished the mission given him and his coolness and ability gave the units confidence in themselves and contributed to the success of the battle. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Brigadier General Irwin, 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.