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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Ivey K. Connell (ASN: 0-1288863), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 6 October 1943, about one mile south of ****, Italy. Lieutenant Connell, Platoon Leader, 81-mm. Mortar Platoon, voluntarily and of his own initiative moved his platoon forward to gain a more advantageous point from which they could cover the withdrawal of Company F, 2d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, by establishing a forward observation post where accurate observed fire could be placed upon the enemy’s position. Normally unobserved area fire would have been sufficient but due to the seriousness of the situation, accurate observed fire was advisable. With utter disregard for his personal safety he continued into the city of **** which was still under intense enemy artillery and small arms fire and established an observation post and mortar position from which controlled fire was delivered. At this point he was killed by an enemy mortar shell which landed in his position. His courageous action contributed to the successful withdrawal of our forces and is a credit to the service.