The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Field Artillery), [then First Lieutenant] Warner G. Peterson (ASN: 0-454713), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943. When enemy tanks threatened to overrun his position, Captain Peterson, although subjected to heavy enemy fire, rendered his equipment useless to the enemy before withdrawing to a place of safety. Later he returned to the area with a group of volunteers, recovered and repaired the equipment, and resumed effective fire on the enemy. 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.