The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant [then Private] Chester C. Mantolesky (ASN: ER-31455679), United States Army, for gallantry in action in Bastogne, Belgium on 26 December 1944 while assigned to Headquarters Company, 318th Infantry Regiment. As lead scout of the Intelligence and Reconnaissance Platoon, Sergeant Mantolesky bravely rose to his feet and boldly exposed himself to enemy fire to achieve the only possible flanking movement when the advance of the Company was halted by intense small arms and mortar fire in its effort to open a supply route to Bastogne. Undaunted by sniper fire, Sergeant Mantolesky advanced in short rushes, located and killed two enemy snipers, and enabled the Company to advance and accomplish its important mission. Sergeant Mantolesky’s outstanding courage, exemplary conduct in the face of enemy danger, and disregard for his own life and personal safety are in the best traditions of the United States Army, and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.