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 Technical Sergeant Lawrence R. Blethen (ASN: 6153775), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Battery, 33d Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, on 27 July 1943. When his battalion fire direction center was subjected to intense and accurate enemy artillery fire during the advance of our troops, Sergeant Blethen remained at his post and continued computing accurate data for firing batteries until mortally wounded. His unselfish devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.