The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Leopold W. Penn, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 45th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Italy on 18 February 1944. During a determined enemy attack, communications between an Infantry mortar observer and his mortar were disrupted by hostile shell fire. Corporal Penn, with the assistance of a comrade, crossed open terrain under intense fire to reestablish communications. Through his action mortar support was made possible at a time when all available fire power was needed to stop the enemy. 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.