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 Pete Sozzoni (ASN: RA-19295898), United States Army, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving with Company C, 3d Engineer Combat Battalion, 24th Infantry Division. Sergeant Sozzoni distinguished himself by courageous action near Waegwan, Korea, on 19 September 1950. As his crew started across the open beach and reached the water’s edge during the assault crossing of the Naktong River the enemy opened fire with mortars and automatic weapons. In spite of the intense fire he led his men in the crossing of the river time and again. On one occasion the enemy scored direct hits on h is boat, but undaunted he retrieved another and continued the flow of men and arms to the far shore. Sergeant Sozzoni’s courageous action, devotion to duty and exemplary leadership reflect the greatest credit on himself and the United States Engineer Corps.