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 First Class Alexander C. Pagel (Pagle) (ASN: 6153848), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 33d Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, on 22 July 1943. When the forward artillery observation post he was maintaining came under intense artillery fire, Private Pagel remained at his post and maintained communications until killed by enemy artillery fire. This devotion to duty is indicative of Private Pagel’s personal bravery. 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.