The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Elmer L. McKesson (ASN: 33227936), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the *** Infantry Regiment, 83d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 10 July 1944, near ****, France. With conspicuous coolness and devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant McKesson assisted an officer in assaulting an enemy machine gun position. Despite intense fire from the position through a wooded area, they successfully secured a hedgerow across an open field where they were able to build up a base of fire and establish the troops in position. Staff Sergeant McKesson’s conspicuous coolness under fire and undaunted determination reflect great credit upon himself and the finest traditions of the military service.