The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Jack M. Hamby (ASN: 6955194), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Gela, Sicily, on 11 July 1943. When an enemy machine gun threatened his company’s flank, Private First Class Hamby fearlessly crossed hazardous terrain under heavy fire and destroyed the enemy gun with a rocket launcher. His fearless devotion to duty in the face of heavy enemy fire enabled his company to repel the enemy 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.