The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Harold E. Bechtel (ASN: 35270748), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery B, 7th Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily during the period from March through August 1943. When an enemy mine killed the officer in charge of his section, Corporal Bechtel assumed command and led his men over a heavily mined area subjected to intense enemy artillery and mortar fire, established an observation post, and operated it successfully. 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.