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 Lieutenant (Medical Corps) Harold P. Sortman (ASN : 0-1683602), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from April through August 1943. With complete disregard for intense enemy artillery fire, Lieutenant Sortman left a sheltered position and entered an area under bombardment so that he might better aid the wounded and supervise their evacuation. His noble and unselfish action reduced suffering and saved the lives of a number of men. Lieutenant Sortman’s 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.