The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Rex D. Crawford (ASN: 0-1012819), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 11 July 1943, south of ****, Sicily. Lieutenant Crawford rallied those around him to resist a hostile tank attack, and was eminently instrumental in preventing a general withdrawal. When his commanding officer was hit by a shell, Lieutenant Crawford attempted to render first aid under fire, and later, though wounded, refused to be evacuated until he had seen to the disposition of effects and burial of his commanding officer. 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.