The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Staleo Salmona (MCSN: 1073644), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Squad Leader of Company H, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 8 April 1952. When enemy burp-gun fire-swept the platoon while it was on a combat patrol forward of the main line of resistance, Staff Sergeant Salmona single-handedly charged the hostile position and, armed only with his carbine, accounted for two enemy casualties. After his weapon failed to fire, he moved into the enemy emplacement and, skillfully employing his bayonet, succeeded in capturing one of the enemy. By his indomitable fighting spirit, courageous initiative and unwavering devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant Salmona served to inspire all who observed him and contributed materially to the success of the patrol’s mission, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.