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 Masao Shigezane (ASN: 37363824), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, 100th Infantry Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 92d Infantry Division, on 21 April 1945 near Marciaso, Italy. When Private Shigezane’s squad attacked a strongly defended house, the enemy retaliated with a heavy concentration of hand grenades and automatic rifle and machine gun fire. At the front of the advancing squad, Private Shigezane, realizing that heavy casualties would result if the squad were forced to halt, crawled forward twenty yards under sniper fire and exploding grenades. Within fifteen yards of the house, Private Shigezane rose, and after rapid rifle fire, threw hand grenades through the windows and doors, stunning the enemy troops and forcing them from their advantageous positions. As Private Shigezane motioned the squad to come forward, he was killed by sniper fire from the rear. Inspired by their comrade’s leadership, the members of the squad closed with the Germans, forcing their surrender. Private Shigezane aggressiveness and courage in battle are exemplary of the finest traditions of the Army of the United States.