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 Demetro Markowitch (ASN: 32066402), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. When a determined enemy thrust threatened the security of his battalion’s flank, Sergeant Markowitch left a place of comparative safety and proceeded to a machine gun exposed to direct enemy fire. He fired this weapon until all ammunition had been expended. His gallant action materially contributed to his battalion’s success in parrying the enemy attack. Sergeant Markowitch’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.