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 Sergeant Martin E. Flaherty (ASN: 31091749), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. Although his platoon sergeant had previously been wounded by enemy fire, Sergeant Flaherty boldly continued a reconnaissance for position area to resist an enemy counterattack. By his excellent reconnaissance and quick thinking, he pointed out fields of fire for our mortars and machine guns, thereby assuring the defeat of the enemy. Sergeant Flaherty’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.