The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Joseph DePietro (ASN: RA-12334970), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company H, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 10 October 1951 in the vicinity of Sanggonbae, Korea. On that date, Private DePietro was the radio operator for the 81-mm. mortar section which was providing fire for a friendly unit during its assault on an enemy-held hill. The numerically superior hostile forces were well dug in with excellent observation as their heavy mortar and artillery fire hampered the advance of friendly troops. Realizing that the mission of the friendly unit and the lives of his comrades depended largely on his ability to zero in his mortars, Private DePietro left his sheltered position and ascended the hill to higher ground. The enemy located his movements and laid down a heavy concentration of fire upon him. Completely disregarding his own safety, Private DePietro reached the topmost point of the ridge and proceeded to make contact with his mortar section. While standing erect for clear reception, he was fatally wounded. As a result of his selfless actions, the friendly unit was able to secure its objective with a minimum of casualties. The gallantry in action and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Private DePietro on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.