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 Cyril M. Smid (ASN: 33081622), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, while temporarily attached to the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. Although painfully wounded by enemy shell fragments, Private Smid carried a radio forward under heavy fire to maintain vital communications. Private Smid’s courageous action enabled his battalion commander to coordinate the activities of his men. 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.