The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Frank E. Betz (ASN: 0-1286064), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from April through August 1943. When communications temporarily failed during a large scale attack on enemy positions, Lieutenant Betz ventured from a place of comparative safety and repaired these communications in the face of withering artillery, mortar, and machine gun fire. His devotion to duty and courage constantly inspired the officers and men of his organization. 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.