The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Leland N. Egleston (ASN: 6980302), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily in July and August 1943. Armed with a rocket gun, Private Egleston, on his own initiative, crept forward under heavy enemy machine-gun, mortar, and artillery fire to a point within close range of enemy forces imperiling the safety of his companions and destroyed several enemy machine-gun nests. His action was instrumental in dislodging the enemy from strongly fortified positions. 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.