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 Cecil W. Anderson (ASN: 20364683), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 3d Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on ** July 1943, north of ****, Sicily. The unit to which Staff Sergeant Anderson had become attached withdrew from its position in the face of artillery and mortar fire. Staff Sergeant Anderson held his position and put out of action two 20-mm. gun carriers with 81-mm. mortar fire. 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.