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 Marvin F. Sanford (ASN: 6939587), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, on 23 April 1943. When his company was forced to withdraw before heavy enemy attacks, Private Sanford crawled to a forward position and covered the withdrawal with effective fire from his automatic weapon. During this action, Private Sanford was mortally wounded. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.