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 Howard K. Derks (ASN: 20435625), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with an Field Artillery Battalion of the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943. When his battery had been forced to abandon its equipment during an enemy attack, Sergeant Derks voluntarily returned to the area, then under intense enemy fire, and assisted in the removal of the equipment. His action enable the battery to reform and resume effective fire against the enemy. 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.