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) Stanford L. Downs (ASN: 0-120916), 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. During a severe enemy counterattack, Lieutenant Downs remained calm under heavy enemy mortar, artillery, and small arms fire. Later, when ordered to withdraw, he went to each of his men and directed them to the new area. His coolness and bravery inspired his men and contributed materially to the orderly withdrawal. 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.