For gallantry in action at ***, ***, on 15 December 1944. Sergeant Skaggs led a rifle squad which followed immediately behind the point of his troop. While attacking a narrow, steep ridge covered with dense undergrowth and heavy foliage, they were subjected to intense enemy small arms fire. In the face of this withering fire, Sergeant Skaggs showed great courage as he aggressively led his squad to establish a firing line on the right flank of the point. With excellent control he delivered effective fire into the enemy position enabling the deployment of the troop for the assault. Sergeant Skaggs, then realizing the opportune moment for the assault was at hand, on his initiative charged the hostile position shouting defiance to the enemy and encouragement to his men. His intrepid action so inspired his troop that they overran the enemy stronghold killing nine of the enemy and routing the remainder from their strategic position.