The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Paul W. Edmonds, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, in 1943. During a bitter engagement with the enemy, Lieutenant Edmonds established an observation post, directed effective Infantry mortar and machine gun fire from an exposed position, and was responsible for inflicting heavy losses on the Germans. His efforts enabled his company to continue its advance. Second Lieutenant Edmonds’ 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.