(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Patrick M. Ristaino (ASN: 11111492), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company C, 61st Armored Infantry Battalion, 10th Armored Division, at Offenbach, Germany, on 22 March 1945. Technical Sergeant Ristaino, braving fierce enemy fire, assumed command of and personally led an infantry platoon in a successful attack upon hostile positions, and although painfully wounded, refused evacuation until he had directed the evacuation of 18 wounded comrades. His gallant achievement reflects great credit upon himself and the military forces of the United States.