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 [then Private First Class] John T. Szczygiel (ASN: 12022887), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Nicosia, Sicily, on 29 July 1943. During a savage engagement with the enemy, Sergeant Szczygiel left his place of comparative safety, manned his automatic weapon, and delivered most effective fire on hostile troops. His fearless courage and prompt initiative under heavy enemy fire enabled his company to seize its objective. Staff Sergeant Szczygiel’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.