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 Orest Leon (ASN: 33584825), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 6 August 1944, in France. When his company was entrucking as a file prior to their motor movement on 6 August 1944, enemy planes suddenly appeared and began to strafe the men and vehicles. The men immediately began to disperse and find cover, and Sergeant Leon alone remained behind to man one of the .50 caliber machine guns mounted on the trucks. Even though subjected to the intense machine gun and rocket fire of these enemy planes, he courageously remained at his gun, placing effective fire on the enemy. His bravery so inspired the remainder of the men that they returned to their guns and opened fie when the planes continued their strafing. The outstanding courage, and loyal devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Leon reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.