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 Ernest H. Skenandore, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Comp[any F, 2d Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 18 October 1944, in Germany. When Private First Class Skenandore’s company was pinned down by machine gun fire from an enemy position, it was decided to use one platoon to outflank and eliminate the fire. Private First Class Skenandore volunteered to act as first scout for the platoon, and although aware that he was in direct fire of the enemy, he fearlessly advanced toward the enemy position. The enemy waited until the main body of the platoon came into view, and then turned the machine gun on them, pinning them to the ground. Private First Class Skenandore continued to advance, and when 25 yards from the machine gun emplacement, exposed himself to use his rifle. Using hand grenades, he was attempting to rout the gun emplacement when ordered to withdraw by the platoon leader. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Skenandore, 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.