The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Private First Class] Rufus F. Brown (ASN: 33145026), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943. Sergeant Brown occupied a position overlooking enemy territory, despite heavy enemy fie, and succeeded in inflicting unusually heavy casualties upon advancing enemy infantry units. His delaying action enabled his company to take up a well-fortified position. 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.