The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Vernon L. Osborne (ASN: 6575573), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 41st Field Artillery Battalion, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily. Master Sergeant Osborne left the cover of his slit trench during a severe concentration of enemy artillery fire near Caronia, Sicily, on 5 August 1943 and extinguished the flames in a vehicle which had been set afire by enemy shelling. Even though shells were exploding within six to twenty-five yards of him, he ran 50 yards through the impact area to the side of the burning vehicle, secured a fire extinguisher and succeeded in extinguishing the fire and driving the vehicle from the danger area. His gallant and speedy action saved the truck and prevented a possible increase in the intensity of the enemy shelling by removing an excellent registration point. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.