The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class [then Private] Henry Schmidt (ASN: 33313534), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. When a determined enemy counterattack threatened the security of his company, Private Schmidt repeatedly crosses terrain subjected to heavy enemy fire and delivered messages vital to the successful defense of his company. Later, when the ammunition supply became seriously depleted, he again crossed terrain under heavy fire and replenished the supply. 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.