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 (Field Artillery), [then Second Lieutenant] George A. Somers (ASN: 0-417344), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Battery, 33d Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943. Although subjected to direct and intense enemy fire, Lieutenant Somers, an artillery observer, advanced with forward assault troops and directed such effective and accurate fire on the enemy forces as to insure the success of the attack. 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.