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 Charles D. Gentilini, Sr. (ASN: 33535563), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as a member of Company F, 13th Infantry Regiment, 8th Infantry Division, in action on 5 April 1945, in the vicinity of Siegen, Germany. Observing an enemy patrol infiltrating into the company’s position, Sergeant Gentilini immediately engaged the patrol in a fire fight, killing one, capturing two and wounding several others of the patrol. Later Sergeant Gentilini assumed command of a squad during a fierce enemy counterattack and so inspired his men by his bravery and leadership that the enemy was repulsed. Sergeant Gentilini’s outstanding courage and aggressiveness were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.