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 Roman Solomka, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 28 March 1943, at El Guettar, Tunisia. Private Solomka distinguished himself by unusual courage and devotion to duty during an attack conducted by Company I against an enemy-held hill mass east of El Guettar. The Company Commander was seriously wounded while leading assault elements against the objective. Private Solomka, with a complete disregard for his own personal safety, crossed an open stretch of ground which was under intense enemy machinegun and artillery fire to reach him. Upon reaching the wounded company commander, he pulled, dragged, and carried him across more than 200 yards of open terrain visible to the enemy who subjected it to increased machinegun fire and artillery shelling. During the course of this action, Private Solomka was himself wounded; yet, despite his own wound, he continued to assist his company commander until he reached a relatively safe area located in a wadi, from which area the company commander was able to continue control and direction of the attack. Private Solomka’s bold and courageous action contributed greatly to the success of his company’s action and were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service, reflecting great credit upon himself and the United States Army.