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 First Class Gennaro Pompilio (ASN: 42127948), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with a military operation against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 386th Infantry Regiment, 97th Infantry Division. On 10 April 1945, near Hulsheid, Germany, Private Pompilio unhesitatingly volunteered to cover the withdrawal of men of his company who were evacuating a seriously wounded man. In the face of heavy enemy fire at a range of 300 yards, Private Pompilio effectively placed fire upon the enemy position until the wounded man was removed to a place of safety. While fighting his way back to his platoon, Private Pompilio was killed. His gallantry on this occasion for which he made the supreme sacrifice reflected high credit upon himself and the Armed Forces.