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 Vernon E. Childers (ASN: 6943908), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 70th Tank Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. When his tank failed mechanically during an advance upon the enemy, Sergeant Childers ordered his men to evacuate and seek cover while he remained with the tank under heavy artillery, mortar, and anti-tank fire and covered the advance of the remainder of his company from the turret of his tank. His heroic actions contributed materially to the decisive defeat of the enemy in this sector. 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.