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 Corporal Harry A. Gordon (ASN: 20311826), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on or about 13 July 1943, north of ****. The unit to which Corporal Gordon had become attached withdrew from its position in the face of artillery and mortar fire. Corporal Gordon held his position and kept his light machine gun firing to cover the withdrawal until his position was hit my mortar fire. Corporal Gordon was killed in this action. 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.