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 First Class Geza J. Oravec (ASN: 33144940), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. Throughout several bitter enemy counterattacks, Private Oravec remained in a forward position with his automatic rifle and assisted in repulsing the enemy. Although painfully wounded in this action, he refused evacuation until certain the enemy had been decisively defeated. 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.