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 Earnest E. Shumate (ASN: 34196645), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943. During an assault on enemy positions, Private Shumate’s platoon was forced to seek cover from direct fire of an enemy machine gun. Exposing himself o this fire, Private Shumate charged the enemy position, destroyed the gun, and captured the enemy crew. 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.