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 Sergeant] Wladyslaw Bernat (ASN: 6141233), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from February through July 1943. Sergeant Bernat continually exposed himself to direct enemy fire and succeeded in destroying several enemy machine gun nests. His excellent leadership and fearlessness materially assisted in the defeat of the enemy. 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.