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 Edward S. Christian (ASN: 36177799), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Cannon Company, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of ***** Sicily in July 1943. Sergeant Christian was section leader of a 75-mm. half-track howitzer gun crew. During offensive action against the enemy and at a distance of 300 to 400 yards, a round of ammunition jammed in the gun. Sergeant Christian, with utter disregard for his safety, jumped from the vehicle with a rammer staff and moving to the muzzle of the gun, cleared the bore of the howitzer in less than a minute, an operation that normally takes two to three minutes, even though expose to direct enemy rifle and machine gun fire ricocheting from the gun and mount as he worked. Sergeant Christian’s fearless decision and immediate action in the face of great danger allowed his gun to continue the attack with but slight delay and was an inspiration to all who witnessed the act. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Christian, 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.