The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Johnny M. Chirafis, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 34th Infantry Division, in Italy, on 17 October 1944. When his radio operator was severely wounded by a mortar shell, Sergeant Chirafis left his position, one of comparative safety, running and crawling 100 yards to retrieve the radio while under heavy enemy shelling. He re-established communications with his battalion. Then crawling forward to assist two wounded men, he kept them in a sheltered position. Sergeant Chirafis’ initiative and courage kept the main line of communications to higher echelon open and enabled 14 wounded comrades to gain prompt medical attention. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.