The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Kenneth J. Merritt (ASN: 18161638), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against the enemy at Normandy, France, on 4 July 1944. 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.