The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Pasquale J. Vitalone (ASN: 32835039), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 16 January 1945, in Belgium. While his company was attacking along a road defended by the enemy, a roadblock was encountered which halted the advance. Fire from an enemy half-track vehicle and some tanks supported the roadblock. Private Vitalone, on his own initiative, took an anti-tank grenade and moved to a position on the flank. Although he knew that he would be subjected to heavy enemy fire when he opened fire with his weapon, he nevertheless did so and scored a hit on one of the enemy tanks before he was mortally wounded by answering fire. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private Vitalone, 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.