The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant John Luta (ASN; 20624372), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 253d Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 2 April 1945, in the vicinity of Hassmersheim, Germany. During a river crossing enemy machine guns opened fire on Sergeant Luta’s men with devastating effect. Gallantly standing in full view of the enemy, he organized and directed the men, many of whom were under fire for the first time, to safe positions. Although he was seriously wounded in the back, he remained in the open until all the men had reached safety. The magnificent courage and leadership displayed by Sergeant Luta were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.