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) Rizalito Abanto (ASN: 0-1301590), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 2 September 1950 in the vicinity of An-Sin, Korea. On this date, he was manning a combat observation post on the forward element of his battalion line. Although under intense enemy machine gun and mortar fire, he remained in an exposed position, thereby successfully locating and reporting enemy strong points. When it became apparent that his position was about to be overrun, he was given authority to withdraw. During the withdrawal, he observed a seriously wounded officer who was unable to withdraw. Through heavy enemy automatic weapons fire he ran to the assistance of his wounded comrade, and with the aid of another soldier, evacuated the wounded officer through the heavy enemy fire over 500 yards to a position of safety. During this action, he also continued to render covering and supporting fire to the other troops. His actions throughout this entire operation were indicative of a high devotion to duty and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Rizalito Abanto (ASN: 0-1301590), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 26 September 1950, in Korea. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.