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 Mickey Malaniak (ASN: 33296730), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Armored Division, on 30 October 1944, on Hill 721, Torre de Nerone, Italy. An enemy attack forced the 3d Platoon of Company B of an armored infantry battalion to withdraw from its positions on Hill 721. Staff Sergeant Malaniak, a squad leader, gathered his men together and placed them in defensive positions just below the crest of the hill. The squad was subjected to a heavy artillery and mortar barrage, and finally the enemy attacked in an attempt to break through out positions. During the period which followed, Staff Sergeant Malaniak continually exposed himself to enemy fire, keeping his men under control and directing the defense in such a manner that the enemy was stopped. With only four men left, Staff Sergeant Malaniak held this position until the rest of the platoon began advancing to reoccupy the hill. Staff Sergeant Malaniak was seriously wounded during this action. The leadership, courage, and devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Malaniak reflects great credit upon the Armored Forces and is worthy of the highest praise.