The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Peter Mercer, The Northamptonshire Regiment, British Army, for gallantry in action on 21 November 1944 near Bologna, Italy. Private Mercer was a member of a patrol detailed to raid a strong enemy position by night and obtain identification. Nearing the position an officer and Private Mercer left the patrol and entered an enemy trench. The enemy had to be killed before the identification could be obtained, and as a result all other posts opened fire. In a hand-to-hand fight Private Mercer carried the officer, while he carried out his necessary duties, and then fought back to the remainder of the patrol.