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 Lloyd W. Panko (ASN: 6936028), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 5th Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy North Africa and Sicily, during the period from April through March 1943. During an advance on an enemy position, Private Panko’s platoon was delayed by intense enemy small arms and machine gun fire. On his own initiative, Private Panko moved to a position from which he could fire upon the enemy and succeeded in silencing them, thereby enabling his company to continue its advance and gain its objective. 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.