The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Pierson S. Crawford (ASN: 12019847), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943. Although wounded by heavy enemy fire, Private Crawford refused evacuation and maintained vitally important communications, thereby materially aiding his battalion in attaining a strategic objective. 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.