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) Ashton Herbert Manhart (ASN: 0-18773), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of an Infantry Battalion of the 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy during the invasion of Sicily, on 10 July 1943. Lieutenant Colonel Manhart left the cover of his command post in an effort to press the attack of one of his assault companies. He crawled 300 yards through intense machine gun and small arms fire, and effectively reorganized the company. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Manhart, 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.