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 Albert A. Rapini (ASN: 31249601), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 12 October 1944, in Germany. Staff Sergeant Rapini, a Squad Leader, was engaged with his unit in making a concentrated attack upon the Siegfried Line. He and his squad were manning an anti-tank gun, which, although in an already dangerous and open position, was still some distance from their target. Staff Sergeant Rapini personally reconnoitered through hazardous territory in search of a more favorable gun position. Although realizing the danger involved, he then moved his gun up to a strategic position and waited for the order to fire. Almost immediately the enemy discovered its position and attempted to destroy the gun by artillery fire. Unmindful of their own safety, Staff Sergeant Rapini and his men gallantly remained at their gun to wreak havoc upon the enemy until their mission was completed. The sincerity and aggressive initiative of Staff Sergeant Rapini merit the highest praise. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Staff Sergeant Rapini, 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.