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 George Masef (ASN: 32006298), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 27 February 1945, in Germany. Private First Class Masef occupied a defensive position to protect a roadblock established by his unit when the enemy launched a counterattack. Risking isolation and possible capture, Private First Class Masef allowed the advance elements of the enemy force to proceed past his position. He then directed fire against the main body of the enemy, taking them completely by surprise. Suffering heavy casualties, they abandoned the attack and withdrew. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Masef, 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.