The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Paul J. Pesackis (MCSN: 355853), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of the crew of a 74-mm. gun half-track serving with the FIRST Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain on 6 January 1944. Proceeding in advance of the half-track under continuous enemy fire from concealed heavy machine guns, Private First Class Pesackis expertly cleared the cumbersome brush in the dense jungle undergrowth and frequently joining in the fire fight shot at snipers covering a strongly fortified road block. Although wounded in this action, he continued to clear the way for the vehicle to be brought into positions for close range firing and performed his duties with courageous determination until the road block was destroyed and the enemy annihilated. Private First Class Pesackis’ fearless conduct and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.