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 Claude J. Scott (ASN: 39212053), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 91st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 1 October 1944 near Monghidoro, Italy. Private First Class Scott, on his own initiative, reorganized his platoon after all the non-commissioned officers had become casualties attempting to hold a hill against fanatical German counterattacks. Because of the excellent enemy observation, the hill became untenable and the platoon was forced to withdraw to better positions. At daybreak they attacked again. Private First Class Scott’s new platoon leader was wounded, and, without hesitation he again took command, leading the men forward against intense machine gun and rifle fire to the crest of the hill. There he successfully reorganized the platoon positions to withstand repeated enemy counterattacks. As he was directing his men in their struggle to hold the hill, Private First Class Scott was wounded in the head and chest. But his ability in leading and directing his platoon had made it possible for them to seize and hold their objective. His courage, leadership, and dauntless fighting spirit in the face of overwhelming odds exemplify the highest traditions of the American Infantryman.