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 Mearl A. Collins (ASN: 11000007), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Service Battery, 7th Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. While delivering 105-mm. howitzer ammunition to a firing battery, Sergeant Collins’ vehicles were attacked and strafed by several enemy aircraft. Although a trailer loaded with ammunition was destroyed in the attack, Sergeant Collins fearlessly exposed himself to the enemy and directed the dispersal of his vehicles. His courage and cool judgment prevented the utter destruction of vital material. Sergeant Collins’ 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.