The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel (Infantry) Albert Harvey Dickerson, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 517th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 17th Airborne Division, in action against the enemy in the European Theater of Operations in 1944. Colonel Dickerson parachuted into combat in an area strongly defended by the enemy and under heavy fire. He immediately engaged the enemy with his carbine and single-handedly killed several enemy riflemen who were firing at incoming soldiers. Thereafter, with calm courage and complete disregard for his own personal safety, Colonel Dickerson took charge of a small detachment of soldiers in the vicinity, personally led them against the enemy located in two stone houses, subdued or destroyed the enemy within the houses, and captured some 20 prisoners. The prompt and aggressive action which reduced these key enemy defenses of the Drop Zone materially assisted the safe landing in the immediate vicinity. Throughout the action which followed, Colonel Dickerson constantly displayed cool judgment and outstanding leadership under fire. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Dickerson, 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.