The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Albert P. Masco (MCSN: 270121), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a member of a Machine-Gun Platoon of Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands on 15 and 16 September 1944. Situated in a position too isolated to be furnished with ammunition, Sergeant Masco remained at his post during the entire night, firing his machine gun until all ammunition was expended. Using grenades and a pistol to repulse the enemy, he held his position against repeated hostile attacks until help could arrive. His indomitable fighting spirit, skill and courageous devotion to duty in the face of a strong enemy counterattack were contributing factors in preventing serious Japanese infiltration and reflect great credit on Sergeant Masco and the United States Naval Service.