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 Ben Kieliszek (ASN: 20501695), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 25 July 1943. Sergeant Kieliszek skillfully crawled over terrain subjected to intense enemy machine-gun fire to reach a vantage point fifteen yards from a Japanese pillbox where he deliberately exposed himself in order to fire three rifle grenades which completely demolished the hostile emplacement. 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.