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 Gene J. Elzas (ASN: 331337502), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of El Guettar, Tunisia, on 31 March 1943. When his company advanced to attack enemy strongholds, Sergeant Elzas, despite withering enemy machine gun and mortar activity, boldly preceded leading elements and drew hostile fire, thereby enabling his company to neutralize the enemy positions. His gallantry, coolness, and initiative under enemy fire contributed materially to the success of this operation and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.