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 Paul R. Leavitt (ASN: 6154296), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery C, 7th Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, in 1943. Sergeant Leavitt, while under continual enemy fire, directed the movement of his artillery piece to a location on the reverse slope of a ridge. In the position he selected, he could deliver direct fire upon the enemy and at the same time provide maximum protection for his men and weapons. He displayed cool judgment and personal bravery in the face of imminent destruction. 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.