The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Virgil F. Biasiotto (ASN: 6886038), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 222d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 10 March 1945 near Althorn, France. Sergeant Biasiotto was leader of a combat patrol sent out with the mission of raiding a section of enemy lines where machine gun and mortar emplacements were suspected to exist. Approaching the positions, the patrol drew fire from a concealed enemy sniper. Sergeant Biasiotto, disregarding the fire, made his way forward and killed the sniper. Drawing heavy machine gun fire, he then stormed the enemy position, throwing two grenades which put the gun out of action. The enemy then covered the area with an intense concentration of mortar fire wounding four members of the patrol. After administering first aid and supervising the evacuation of the wounded he ordered a withdrawal. Through his outstanding courage and aggressive leadership, Sergeant Biasiotto played a major role in the successful assault, gaining invaluable information for future operations.