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 First Class Eldridge V. Harbin (ASN: 35489448), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 10 July 1943, near ****. Private First Class Harbin, a rifleman, attacked an Italian fortified position destroying it with hand grenades, killing two of the enemy. Private First Class Harbin was mortally wounded in this action and died a short time later. This fortified position was so located on the side of a hill that before it was destroyed it prevented the entire company from moving forward. 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.