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 [then Private] James R. Silvola, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against an armed enemy while serving with the Intelligence and Reconnaissance Platoon, Headquarters Company, 394th Infantry Regiment, 99th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on December 16, 1944. Private First Class Silova’s outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 99th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.