The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Leo H. Backus (ASN: 33562164), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 143d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action on 26 August 1944 in France. When Company A attacked strongly defended enemy positions on the crest of a hill, the enemy directed heavy machine gun crossfire and mortar fire and threw hand grenades at the attacking troops. Heavy casualties made a slight withdrawal for reorganization necessary. Sergeant Backus, with complete disregard for his own safety, remained in position firing his sub-machine gun at the enemy to cover the withdrawal of his comrades. Although he became the target for the hostile fire, and was wounded, he courageously continued to fire until all his ammunition was expended. He then crawled through the enemy fire to a new position. By his gallantry and determination, he enabled his comrades to withdraw and reorganize without further casualties. 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.