The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Sergeant Aleck Sikora (ASN: 11009017), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. When Sergeant Sikora’s company had been reduced to the size of a platoon after a long and savage battle, the enemy launched a determined counterattack and threatened to annihilate his men. Realizing the need for quick and decisive action, Sergeant Sikora organized a group of runners and radio operators into a squad of riflemen and led them in a brilliant flanking movement which compelled the enemy to withdraw. 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.