The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Armor) Zachary J. Cornea, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 1st Armored Division during the Tunisian Campaign in North Africa in 1943. His platoon occupied a defensive position in a wadi in dry river beds which became the target for an extremely heavy concentration by enemy howitzers. One of the tanks stalled in an open position. Lieutenant Cornea unhesitatingly ordered his own tank position in front of the stalled vehicle. Then he completely disregarded his own welfare by dismounting and while under heavy enemy fire prevented the destruction of a valuable piece of government property. The courage, devotion to duty, and complete disregard for his own welfare displayed by Lieutenant Cornea reflect great credit upon himself and the command and are highly commendable.