The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Charles Trapani, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Italy on the afternoon of 24 January 1944. When his Infantry company was temporarily halted in its advance, Sergeant Trapani crawled forward, protected only by a slight ditch, bullets striking within two feet of him, until he was within 60 yards of the enemy gun. Disregarding aimed rifle fire which barely missed him, he fired rifle grenades at the gun, knocking out the gunner and forcing the remainder of the crew to withdraw. Continuing alone, he crawled another 50 yards to a point about 20 yards form a second gun which was located in a house. Ignoring enemy hand grenades which struck within five feet of him, he fired several rifle grenades at the installation, silencing the weapon and forcing the Germans to evacuate the house. His actions enabled his company to continue its advance. 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.