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 [then Private] Jesse De Soto (ASN: 32638760), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 27 February 1945, in Germany. When an enemy counterattack was observed being formed, Sergeant De Soto went to the upstairs window of a house where he had a commanding view of the enemy. Firing his machine gun, he succeeded in pinning the enemy to the ground. While he was firing, the occupants of an enemy tank observed him and began firing at his position. Although one round struck the house he courageously continued his fire, killing four and forcing the remainder to abandon their positions. Sergeant De Soto’s courageous actions contributed to the repulsing of the enemy counterattack. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant De Soto, 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.