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 Private Kenneth E. Crotser (ASN: 16141364), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily on 21 July 1943. When the advance of his platoon was retarded by deadly enemy machine-gun fire, Private Crotser volunteered to attack the enemy frontally while his platoon maneuvered around the gun. Although mortally wounded by heavy enemy fire, Private Crotser’s actions enabled his platoon to destroy the enemy weapon. 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.