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 [then Private] Virgil A. Kist (ASN: 33234050), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, while temporarily attached to the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. When accurate enemy machine gun fire prevented the speedy advance of his company, Private Kist ignored the withering fire, crawled to an exposed position, and fearlessly attacked the enemy emplacement with his own machine gun. His action enabled his company to seize its objective with a minimum of casualties. Private First Class Kist’s 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.