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 Technical Sergeant Harry E. Ricketts (ASN: 15012609), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 350th Infantry Regiment, 88th Infantry Division, in action on 12 May 1944, in Italy. A member of an infantry regiment, Sergeant Ricketts led a machine gun section in support of a rifle platoon that had begun to disorganize because of casualties and by his heroic actions saved his comrades from a dangerous situation. As the action continued, he observed that the head of the platoon was receiving intense machine gun fire. Acting on his own initiative, Sergeant Ricketts moved forward from the rear area at the head of a bazooka team to aid the platoon in its resistance. When the platoon leader became a casualty, Sergeant Ricketts continued to act with initiative and leadership. He advanced at the head of the bazooka team in the face of machine gun fire to engage the enemy. This action resulted in drawing the machine gun fire away from the remainder of the company. During the advance, Sergeant Ricketts struck and exploded a mine, receiving injuries which later proved fatal. His gallant conduct and inspired leadership served to buoy the fighting spirit of our troops and his magnificent courage reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service. the highest credit upon himself and the traditions of the armed forces.