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 Technician Fifth Grade John F. Szczotka (ASN: 33146178), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with 3d Reconnaissance Troop, 601st Tank Destroyer Battalion, 3d Infantry Division. On 25 April 1945, at about 1600 hours, in the vicinity of Ellerbach, Germany, when his vehicle was almost surrounded, Technician Fifth Grade Szczotka directed the fire of his 37-mm. gun and .30 and .50 caliber machine guns so accurately that 8 Germans were killed and many wounded. Then, despite intense enemy Panzerfaust, machine gun, and small arms fire, Technician Fifth Grade Szczotka continued to cover the successful withdrawal of his patrol until he was killed. 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.