The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Herbert L. Middaugh (ASN: 35279419), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Battery D, 105th Anti-Aircraft Artillery (Automatic Weapons) Battalion, in action in the vicinity of Gela, Sicily, on 10 July 1943. During a landing operation an LST in which Corporal Middaugh and other members of his platoon were preparing to disembark when it received a direct bomb hit from enemy aircraft. The entire ship burst into flames and ammunition started exploding. Although wounded, Corporal Middaugh assisted two other seriously wounded men to the upper deck where they could be evacuated. His calm courage and ability to face imminent danger exemplify the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.