The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Anton J. Sodek, United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 45th Infantry Division on 20 August 1944. Private First Class Sodek was assistant gunner on an armored car engaged in a reconnaissance mission near ******, Sicily. As the patrol approached the town, the enemy attacked from a well concealed position. Private First Class Sodek’s car immediately opened fire on an anti-tank gun at the side of the road, but in the fire fight which followed Private First Class Sodek’s vehicle was hit several times. The driver and car commander were killed, and Private First Class Sodek himself was wounded. In spite of his wounds, he continued to direct effective fire at the enemy, neutralizing the anti-tank gun and inflicting a number of casualties on the hostile infantry. Although painfully wounded and subjected to heavy shelling, his rapid and accurate fire did not cease until the car’s gasoline tank exploded, trapping him in the vehicle. He died of wounds suffered in this action. Private First Class Sodek’s courage and determination to defeat a numerically superior force were an inspiration to his comrades and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.