The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Robert L. Dickerson (ASN: 0-23615), United States Army, for gallantry in action on ** **** 1943, about five miles from ****, Italy. Commanding Company E, 2d Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, he successfully defended a salient 800 yards into enemy lines against a bold and aggressive foe through eight hours of continuous attack. Although seasoned artillery observers were forced to withdraw from the locality, and he was deprived of artillery support, Captain Dickerson remained in his forward Command Post, in a position declared untenable by the forces he relieved. By his own high courage, indomitable will and inspiring leadership, he encouraged his out-gunned and out-numbered company to stand fast and repel repeated enemy assaults aimed to dislodge them. Under concentrated hostile machine gun, mortar, and artillery fire, he held the salient and enabled his battalion to accomplish its mission. 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.