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 First Class Myrdis D. Cook, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with 85th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Italy during World War II. A platoon gunner, Private First Class Cook volunteered to return at night through an area known to be mined in order to guide a carrying party with supplies and reinforcements to his isolated platoon. On returning with the party, many casualties were sustained, causing loss of most of the urgently needed supplies. Private First Class again made his way back through the minefield and personally brought up supplies to the platoon and despite heavy enemy fire, he distributed them wherever needed. His courage and resourcefulness were an inspiration to the men of his unit during a critical situation. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Cook, 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.