The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert J. Gavin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 34th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Italy in October 1943. Lieutenant Gavin led his platoon in beating off two enemy tank attacks in one day, either of which might have brought about the end of the platoon. Anticipating the first attack and caught in unfavorable open terrain, he ordered his men to a protective gully and showed the way by dashing 300 yards to it across level ground swept by hostile machine guns. Almost immediately their position in the gully was attacked by three enemy tanks, which were repulsed by rifle grenade and rifle fire. Later in the day, the tanks again attacked with shell fire a point-blank range. Although suffering from shell-burst concussion and lacerated about the nose and face, he directed defensive action in which the platoon forced the enemy armor to withdraw its attack for the second time. 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 and the United States Army.