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) Neal L. McRoberts (ASN: 0-436234), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer, Company F, 2d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 5 October 1943, in the village of *****, Italy. Throughout the daylight hours of 5 October 1943, Captain McRoberts displayed outstanding gallantry in leading his command. He was ordered to seize and secure the village and upon completing this mission, was heavily counter-attacked by the enemy. Heavy artillery and mortar fire began to fall on the village and the enemy attacked from the right flank and from the front, completely covering the village with automatic small arms, artillery, and mortar fire. Having lost all means of organic communication, Captain McRoberts resorted to the use of runners and under heavy shell fire, moved among his men, rallying them and giving them direct orders. By his cool persistence and total disregard for his own safety, he avoided confusion, reorganized his company and successfully resisted the enemy counter-attack. 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.