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 Tomoaki Shimabukuro (ASN: 30105260), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 36th Infantry Division, near Bruyeres, France on 20 October 1944. Volunteering to go with a carrying party to bring rations and ammunition to front line troops, Private Shimabukuro left his rifle behind in order to take the maximum load possible. While his party was crossing an open field, it was suddenly ambushed by a strong enemy force armed with machine guns and rifles. Realizing that the situation was desperate, Private Shimabukuro shouldered his load and made a dash for the concealment of the woods, hoping by his example to impress upon his comrades the importance of their mission. Though mortally wounded he shouted at the enemy soldiers to attract their fire, and by so doing enabled the remainder of the party to reach cover, fight off the enemy and successfully complete the mission. By his gallant and self-sacrificing actions Private Shimabukuro reflects much credit upon himself and the armed forces of the United States.