The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Leonard L. Barth (ASN: 36767194), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 16 April 1945, while serving with Company C, 349th Infantry Regiment, 88th Infantry Division, near Furcoli, Italy. Private Barth performed with unusual gallantry in hostile fire when he assaulted German positions inflicting casualties on the enemy. Private Barth was lead scout as his platoon advanced to attack hostile positions on Hill 375. As the platoon neared the objective the enemy opened fire with small arms and grenades, covering all routes of approach. In the face of almost certain death, Private Barth crawled toward a dugout near a house. Bullets narrowly missed him but this courageous soldier continued on. Jumping to his feet, firing as he ran, he assaulted the position killing two Germans. Firing from the left flank the enemy could still hold up the advance. Working his way to the left, over rugged terrain, Private Barth approached another German position. Again he became the target of the enemy who tried desperately with heavy fire to cut him down. At close range, exposed to the full fury of German fire, Private Barth has won the admiration of all who witnessed his actions which are in keeping with the finest traditions of the armed forces.