The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Howard W. Littreal (ASN: 33091414), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, at Ferme Combier, Algeria, 10 November 1942. During the Oran offensive, Private Littreal, with complete disregard of his personal safety, furnished covering fire for an officer and noncommissioned officer of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, who were bringing a wounded officer back to safety. Private Littreal was in a position far advanced from that of his company and, while covering this evacuation, received several fatal gunshot wounds. Private Littreal’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.