The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Milo J. Cross, United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 45th Infantry Division in Italy in 1943. While attacking up a steep rocky mountain, Lieutenant Cross and his platoon were pinned down by heavy fire from an enemy machine gun and rifles, in addition to hand grenades dropped down the steep slope. Without regard for personal safety, Lieutenant Cross crawled to a point 220 yards from the enemy machine gun. When he exposed himself to throw a hand grenade, he was wounded. He continued to throw hand grenades until the enemy was forced to withdraw, thus enabling his platoon to continue the attack and successfully occupy the mountain. Lieutenant Cross’ courageous leadership is exemplary of the high ideals of the Armed Forces of the United States.