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 Michael L. Croatti (ASN: 31363128), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On the night of 19 April 1945, when a heavy enemy artillery concentration set fire to a nearby house, Private First Class Croatti disregarded shells which burst within 30 yards of him to carry his 81-mm. mortar 60 yards forward, setting it up in an open field near Erlangen, Germany. After he had fired three rounds, he was observed by an enemy plane which strafed the field. Despite bullets which barely missed him, Private First Class Croatti remained in position and fired 20 more rounds. The rest of his crew, who had been dispersed by the plane’s fire, were inspired by his courage and rejoined him. The fire laid down by this mortar materially helped to break up an enemy counter-attack. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.