The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Mitchell J. Kolcz (ASN: 36629702), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 26 and 27 March 1944. Private First Class Kolcz made numerous trips beyond the front lines to treat and evacuate wounded soldiers. When two men wee hit and left lying in an exposed area, Private First Class Kolcz crawled to their assistance and helped them to the cover of a banyan tree where he administered first aid. Unable to return to the American lines because of intense fire, the trio remained in their covered position until rescued by a tank-led attack. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Kolcz, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.