The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Gerald R. Meunier (ASN: 0-1310619), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy on ** July 1943, at *****, Sicily. Lieutenant Meunier in charge, together with one officer and two privates, moved on a reconnaissance mission at ***** into a strongly defended enemy position and under fire from both mortar and automatic weapons accomplished the reconnaissance mission and captured 30 enemy prisoners. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.