The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Theodore Tryba (ASN: 39390912), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy while volunteering to accompany a relief detail to replace the forward observers who had become casualties in Italy on 16 December 1943. Constantly exposed to concentrated artillery, mortar and small arms fire, he fearlessly undertook to maintain the forward communications lines and devoted himself untiringly to his hazardous task. His outstanding courage and exemplary devotion to duty contributed materially to the successful accomplishment of the important Infantry assault. 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.