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 Paul J. Kovacik (ASN: 6889510), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 70th Tank Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, in July and August 1943. Although his tank was subjected to heavy enemy artillery, anti-tank, and machine gun fire, Sergeant Kovacik continued on a reconnaissance of enemy territory until his tank had been hit several times and have overturned. Then, despite continued enemy mortar and artillery fire, he carried a seriously wounded comrade to a place of safety. Staff Sergeant Kovacik’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.