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 [then Corporal] Charles F. Kurtz, Jr. (ASN: 33114906), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943. When terrific enemy machine gun crossfire compelled his company to take cover during an attack on strongly fortified enemy positions, Sergeant Kurtz crawled through this heavy fire to his battalion command post and obtained relief. 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.