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 Sergeant Edward M. Burns (ASN: 13008506), 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 February through July 1943. When his company’s position was imperiled by a sudden enemy attack, Sergeant Burns cautiously advanced under heavy fire and destroyed a machine gun nest and several enemy snipers who were causing serous damage to our defense. As a result of this action, Sergeant Burns was mortally wounded. 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.