The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Donald V. Helgeson (ASN: 0-405328), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily during the period from March through August 1943. While under heavy enemy small arms and machine gun fire, Lieutenant Helgeson led his platoon to a position on an enemy hill and maintained this position for several hours despite constant machine gun, mortar, and artillery fire. When his ammunition became seriously depleted in the face of a strong enemy attack, Lieutenant Helgeson, although wounded, directed a successful withdrawal. 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.