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 Leonard Elmer Cozart (ASN: 38686037), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 87th Mountain Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 14 April 1945, near Rocca di Roffeno, Italy. In preparation for the attack on a commanding mountain, it was necessary to clear a house at the base of the peak from which the enemy had been offering terrific resistance. Private First Class Cozart and another rifleman volunteered to undertake the dangerous mission. The two soldiers crossed several hundred yards of open terrain, braving heavy artillery and small arms fire to reach they building. They then stormed the enemy strong point with grenades and rifle fire and by their determined actions forced twelve of the enemy to surrender. This allowed their company to move forward in the final assault of their objective. Such splendid aggressiveness and heroism have earned for Private First Class Cozart the highest praise and commendation and added luster to the finest traditions of the United States Army.