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 Ercole Olivetti (ASN: 33348119), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 24 December 1944 in Luxembourg. During a violent enemy attack against Heiderscheid, Luxembourg, Sergeant Olivetti, an infantry company communication sergeant, observed an enemy armored column approaching. Quickly he selected an advantageous position and calmly held his fire until enemy tanks had passed. Then he opened fire on enemy infantry troops, taking a heavy toll in wounded and killed. When threatened by three machine gun squads he annihilated two and forced the other to withdraw. His sound judgment and aggressiveness not only gave his comrades sufficient time to cope with the situation, but were responsible for the disorganization and rout of a superior enemy force. His resourcefulness, 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.