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 First Class Louis S. Egidi (ASN: RA-12298522), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 2d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 31 January 1951, near Utong-dong, Korea, Company F had the mission of taking Hill 425. Sergeant Egidi’s squad had the mission of protecting the units left flank against possible enemy counter attack. While maneuvering to a position from which it could best accomplish its mission, the squad came under intense small arms and mortar fire which killed two men and wounded the four remaining members of the squad. Displaying extreme bravery and devotion to duty, Sergeant Egidi, although constantly exposed to heavy small arms fire, remained in his exposed position and continued to carry out his squad’s mission. On three separate occasions he prevented small enemy groups from attacking his platoon from the left flank. By the accurate and methodical firing of his rifle he stopped one group of enemy armed with grenades and automatic weapons. Although wounded and in extreme pain, he refused to relinquish his position until the platoon received reinforcements, and he was relieved by another squad. The heroism and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Egidi reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.