The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Corps of Engineers) John A. Tantillo (ASN: 0-925007), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 305th Engineer Battalion, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 21 February 1945 in Germany. On the night of 21 – 22 February 1945, at Lahr, Germany, despite heavy enemy fire and the need for using many men who had never experienced enemy action, Captain Tantillo’s superb leadership and reassuring inspiration to his men resulted in the construction of a bridge essential to the planned tank and infantry attack the next dawn. Captain Tantillo’s outstanding leadership, courage, and resourcefulness were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.