The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Stanley F. Welc (ASN: 33136655), 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 April through August 1943. When overwhelming enemy forces compelled his company to withdraw, thereby leaving a flank of his regiment exposed to the enemy, Private Welc led a patrol through enemy machine gun fire to the regiment and informed them of the withdrawal and their vulnerability to 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.