The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Gilberto G. Montemayor (ASN: 18154622), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 319th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 9 November 1944 in France. During an attack on the enemy, Staff Sergeant Montemayor was serving as platoon guide. As the platoon advanced toward the objective, it was suddenly taken under a murderous crossfire which temporarily halted their progress. Realizing the gravity of the situation and exhibiting cool courage and utter disregard for his own personal safety, Staff Sergeant Montemayor leaped to his feet, hurled a hand grenade at one of the machine gun nests and ran headlong into the position, destroying the crew with his bayonet. This reduction of enemy fire enabled the platoon with which he served to concentrate on the other machine gun nest and to overrun and destroy it. His personal bravery, aggressiveness, and sincere devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.