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 [then Private First Class] Willie N. Deem (ASN: 15011762), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, while temporarily attached to the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. While his battalion was making an advance against the enemy, Sergeant Deem proceeded to a high, exposed terrain feature under enemy artillery and machine gun fire, from which he could effectively fire upon snipers; he remained in this position until all our men had safely passed. 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.