The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Samuel J. Ciccone (ASN: 6902524), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division in the period from January to April 1943. Having exhausted his supply of 81-mm. mortar ammunition, Sergeant Ciccone, exposing himself to direct enemy fire, recovered a 60-mm. mortar and ammunition. In the face of heavy enemy fire, he assisted in moving this gun to a forward position and successfully destroyed an enemy sniper’s nest. 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.