The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Maultis M. Cyrus (ASN: 20408670), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 113th Field Artillery Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 23 June 1944, in France. When his battery was subjected to a fierce concentration of enemy artillery, many direct hits were scored on the gun pits, which ignited the powder containers. The powder was burning very close to a number of artillery shells and there was a serious danger of the projectiles exploding. Ignoring the danger involved, Staff Sergeant Cyrus proceeded to the scene and commenced shoveling dirt on the burning powder. Despite continuing artillery fire, he courageously continued until the fire was completely extinguished. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Staff Sergeant Cyrus, 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.