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 Private First Class Francis L. Malay (ASN: 32254819), United States Army, for gallantry in action on or about 6 October 1943, in the city of ****, Italy. Private First Class Malay, of Company F, 2d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, volunteered to take a message to the Company Command Post informing the command that his platoon was under an extremely heavy concentration of small arms and artillery fire in the town and was unable to move. The only route was under direct observation of the enemy, who deliberately directed mortar and small arms fire against Private First Class Malay. With grim determination and courage he carried on and delivered the message. He returned to his platoon through the same hazards and was seriously wounded, later dying as a result of these wounds. His brave and gallant devotion to duty inspired his comrades to emulate his courage in successfully fulfilling their 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.