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 Gilbert S. Castaneda (ASN: 39582811), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action in Germany, on 6 April 1945. Determined to eliminate an enemy sniper who was making his platoon’s position nearly untenable, Private Castaneda fearlessly walked out into the open to draw the enemy fire and force the sniper to disclose his position. Locating the enemy in a house, he quickly slipped up and captured him. His great heroism prevented several casualties being suffered by his platoon. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Castaneda, 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.