The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Michael W. Stima (ASN: 6879051), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March to August 1943. When a combined force of enemy tanks and infantry infiltrated our positions, Sergeant Stima, exposing himself to the enemy, seized control of a machine gun, covered the withdrawal of our forward elements and succeeded in delaying the enemy’s advance. 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.