The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Charles R. Varvakis (ASN: 33693281), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 20 September 1944, at ****, Holland. Private First Class Varvakis was a machine gunner, Company E, 2d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, participating in the attack on ****. Private First Class Varvakis placed his gun in a position along a ridge overlooking the Waal River. The enemy had good observation and kept the position on this ridge under incessant artillery fire, and from nearby buildings snipers kept up a harassing fire. Private First Class Varvakis completely disregarded this enemy fire, and, although almost blown from his position a number of times by artillery bursts, kept his gun in action. He poured a devastating fire on the enemy positions, pinned them down and denied them observation. As a direct result of his action the enemy were unable to move to new gun positions or fire on the remainder of Private First Class Varvakis’ platoon. Besides inflicting several casualties on the enemy, he denied them the necessary maneuverability to launch a counterattack. Private First Class Varvakis kept his gun in action and turned in a superior performance until ordered to disengage. 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.