The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class John J. Kotas (ASN: 12023510), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, on 5 August 1943. When his company was subjected to heavy enemy machine gun crossfire in its advance on an enemy hill, Private Kotas, unmindful of the enemy’s strategic advantage, stormed one of the enemy nests in a valiant attempt to destroy it. Although killed in this action, his effective grenade fire compelled the enemy machine gun crew to withdraw. Private First Class Kotas’ gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.