The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Lawrence J. Wernsman, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily in 1943. When his Infantry patrol was trapped by heavy enemy machine gun and small arms fire, Lieutenant Wernsman reconnoitered the area and discovered a means of esc ape. He led his patrol to safety and furnished his commander with valuable information concerning enemy defenses. 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.