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 Louis Vitale, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 11th Infantry Regiment, 5th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 8 September 1944, near Dornot, France. Corporal Vitale crawled over 300 yards of exposed terrain to aid three men who were wounded. He skillfully administered medical treatment and lifted the casualties form a 7-foot depression with only the aid of a blanket. His acts of heroism minimized the effects of the wounds and improved the morale of the troops in that sector. 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.