The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Wiley W. Stem (ASN: 0-406991), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 143d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 1 June 1944 in Italy. Captain Stem, Commander of the Cannon Company of his regiment, was instructed to support the 1st Battalion in its attack against strongly fortified enemy positions. Displaying unusual daring and aggressiveness, he led his company forward of the advancing battalion to engage enemy strong points which were firing on the friendly troops. Although the enemy was firing from well concealed positions which afforded good observation and excellent fields of fire, he courageously left his vehicle and proceeded on foot to reconnoiter for targets for his weapons. In spite of sweeping small arms fire and intense artillery and mortar shelling, he directed effective fire against the enemy positions, forcing the enemy to withdraw a self-propelled mount. He commanded only a small group of men, but he displayed such splendid leadership in guiding their movements that they succeeded in capturing 80 prisoners. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.