The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant John M. Pellettiere (ASN: 36005464), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 712th Tank Battalion, 90th Infantry Division, in action on 22 February 1945, in the vicinity of Krautescheid, Germany. A tank platoon, supporting an infantry unit’s advance on the town, was subjected to a severe counterattack. Sergeant Pellettiere, at risk of his life, reconnoitered fire-swept areas on foot to determine the best route of approach on the attacking force. He continually exposed himself as he directed his tank platoon in a surprise attack on the hostile force in which two tanks were destroyed, 15 to 20 enemy were killed, approximately 100 taken prisoner and the objective captured. His gallant act materially aided the success of the mission and was in accordance with high military tradition.