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 Laerence J. Greenia (ASN: 11000114), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily in July 1943. When enemy tanks threatened to break through our front lines to supply points near the beach, Sergeant Greenia, displaying coolness and resourcefulness under heavy enemy fire, moved his howitzer from a position of comparative safety to one under heavy enemy fire and directed the firing of his piece at point-blank range against the advancing tanks. 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.