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 [then Private First Class] Albert Mills, Jr. (ASN: 34057562), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 2 June 1944, near Corielic, Italy. Staff Sergeant Mills assumed command of his squad just prior to an attack against a well-defended hill position. His courage and aggressiveness in leading his men in hand-to-hand fighting contributed greatly to the success of the attack. He then moved under enemy fire to administer first aid and direct the evacuation of several members of his squad who had been wounded during the attack. Staff Sergeant Mills’ gallantry and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.