The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Felix L. Sparks (ASN: 0-386497), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of Company E, 2d Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 16 February 1944, near Carrocato, Italy. Captain Sparks’ company was subjected to a series of attacks by a numerically superior German force composed of tanks and infantry and preceded by intense artillery barrages. Captain Sparks repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire in order to advise his officers and men of the situation. During one attack two Mark IV tanks reached a point within 25 yards of his command post and continued to fire upon the company’s positions until repelled by artillery and bazooka fire. Captain Sparks remained at his command post in the face of withering artillery, machine gun, and mortar fire, controlling his men, directing the fire fight and relaying valuable information to the battalion headquarters. When orders were received to move the company to another sector, he successfully disengaged the enemy and organized a new defensive position. His courageous example of coolness under intense fire inspired his men to hold this position and prevent a serious enemy break-through. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Sparks, 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.