The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private David M. Stefanik, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 3 August 1943. Disregarding his personal safety, Private Stefanik aggressively moved forward into the face of hostile fire and opened effective automatic fire upon the enemy to assist inestimably ion stopping a force of thirty Japanese with eighteen casualties. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.