The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Sylvester T. Del Corso (ASN: 0-358188), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. On 22 February 1945, Colonel Del Corso personally led the assault units of his battalion in a brilliantly successful attack against the Japanese garrison barricaded in the City Hall of Manila. In three previous attacks on this vital position our forces had been driven back, and the fourth attempt met devastating enemy rifle, machine gun and mortar fire. As the attack faltered. Colonel Del Corso abandoned the security of his forward observation post, joined the advance elements and led and inspired them in a smashing attack, which resulted in the death of hundreds of enemy soldiers and the capture of vast stores of equipment. 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.