The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Victor H. Briggs (ASN: 0-1286079), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943. When attacking companies of his battalion were subjected to severe enemy fire and were unable to proceed, Lieutenant Briggs voluntarily crossed open terrain in full view of the enemy and established telephone communications, thus insuring the success of a coordinated attack. 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.