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 (Field Artillery) Charles G. Derby (ASN: 0-1168629), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery A, 456th Parachute Field Artillery Battalion, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 12 July 1943, about three miles south of ****. First Lieutenant Derby, together with two other men were on a mission reconnoitering and seeking a point of observation for directing artillery fire. They pushed ahead in German occupied positions, moving in dangerously close (25 yards) to a German three-gun battery whose strength was approximately one hundred men. By this action, First Lieutenant Derby was able to complete his mission, accurately locating the enemy batter position. As a result of this action, First Lieutenant Derby lost his life. 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.