The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Merrill S. Ferrara (ASN: 0-1177386), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery C, 7th Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa in November 1943. The assault company with which he was operating as a forward observer came under intense enemy mortar fire and the company commander was wounded. Lieutenant Ferrara transferred the observation mission to his assistant and, with utter disregard for his own safety, crossed the open fire-swept terrain to where the wounded officer was lying and assisted him to a culvert. He then re-crossed the same terrain to his foxhole and resumed observation. His gallant conduct was an inspiration to those who saw it. First Lieutenant Ferrara’s 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.