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 Elwood J. Silva (ASN: 19085684), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 70th Tank Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily in 1943. Although his tank was subjected to heavy enemy artillery, anti-tank, and machine gun fire, Private Silva continued on a reconnaissance of enemy territory until his tank had been hit several times and had overturned. He then crossed several miles of exposed terrain subjected to concentrated mortar and artillery fire and obtained medical treatment for his wounded comrades. 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.