The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class [then Private] Morris J. Grass (ASN: 12005214), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from February through July. During a savage attack on a strategic hill, Private Grass exposed himself to the enemy and drew fire away from other members of his unit, thereby enabling them to destroy several enemy nests. Although wounded in this action. Private Grass, after receiving medical treatment, crossed an open field subjected to heavy enemy fire and returned to his battalion command post. 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.