The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal [then Private] Harold W. Pettys (ASN: 12016267), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943. When his company’s position became untenable because of extremely heavy machine gun fire during a savage enemy counterattack, Corporal Pettys remained in a forward position and skillfully covered this withdrawal. 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.