The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Albert J. Riccio (ASN: 6977852), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March to August 1943. During an attack on enemy fortified positions, Sergeant Riccio worked his way up a fire-covered hillside to a position from which he could throw hand grenades. He succeeded in disrupting enemy fire and diverted the enemy’s attention from a frontal attack. 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.