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 Corporal] Henry J. Wawrzaszek (ASN: 6878810), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Battery, 5th Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily in 1943. When enemy tanks disrupted communications, Sergeant Wawrzaszek fearlessly left his position of safety, risked the hazards of street fighting, and repaired the lines. His courageous action restored communications and enabled accurate fire to be directed on the tanks, forcing them to withdraw. 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.