The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Larry A. Minalga (ASN: 36030850), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment< 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 1 August 1944, in France. During a large scale attack on the enemy, when the attacking forces were unable to advance due to the stubborn and vigorous resistance, Staff Sergeant Minalga led a patrol deep into enemy-held territory in order to gain information of hostile troops dispositions and gun emplacements. After ten hours within the enemy lines, during which time he was constantly subject to innumerable hazards, he brought his patrol safely back to friendly territory. The information gained by the daring actions of his heroic leader was of inestimable value in the subsequent defeat of the enemy. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Staff Sergeant Minalga, 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.