The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Perley H. F. Gardner (ASN: 6143813), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with a Medical Detachment of 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, during he period from January to May 1943. Sergeant Gardner, disregarding exploding ammunition in a vehicle which had struck an enemy mine, entered the minefield and carried two injured men from the burning vehicle to a place of safety. 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.