The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Trooper Kenneth Gash (7952520), British Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 46th Battalion, The Royal Tank Regiment, British Army, in action on the Anzio Beachhead, on 18 February 1944. Trooper Gash was co-driver of a tank which had become immobilized in full view of the enemy while engaged in an offensive operation very early in the day. As the vehicle was attracting heavy enemy fire the commander ordered Trooper Gash to leave the tank and join a friendly infantry unit in a nearby ditch. With determined initiative and exceptional presence of mind Trooper Gash dismounted a machine gun and carried it to the ditch. There, he manned the weapon throughout the day against counterattacking enemy troops. Despite the heavy small arms fire, several times he courageously left the protection of the ditch and returned to his tank in order to secure ammunition and carry messages from the infantry commander to his own Commanding Officer. Late in the day an enemy mortar shell landed in the position, destroying his gun and severely wounding him. His courageous and aggressive action was an important factor in repelling the German counterattack and reflects the finest traditions of the military service.