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 Frank P. Rathbun (ASN: 20839869), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with a Field Artillery Battalion of the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, in 1943. During heavy enemy aerial bombardment of his battery, Private Rathbun, a radio operator, unhesitatingly and on his own initiative, went to the assistance of a machine gunner firing from the back of a truck upon enemy planes. Private Rathbun’s bold action aided in diverting the pilots’ attention and undoubtedly saved his battery from a severe bombing. 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.