The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Paul E. Skok (ASN: 35167246), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 27th Infantry Division at Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 16 July 1944. After locating an enemy position containing two riflemen, Sergeant Skok purposely remained visible to the enemy, drawing their attention and rifle fire until the position was knocked out. The position could never have been destroyed that evening if Sergeant Skok had not acted quickly and bravely.