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 Staff Sergeant John C. Ritso (ASN: 6904671), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company E, 601st Tank Destroyer Battalion, 3d Infantry Division. On ** February 1943, Sergeant Ritso distinguished himself in action against an armed enemy in the vicinity of ******. When the tank destroyer commanded by Sergeant Ritso was destroyed by enemy fire, he proceeded to render first aid to a wounded member of his gun crew while in full view of hostile forces at a range of 600 – 800 yards. Although under concentrated artillery and small arms fire, Sergeant Ritso carried the wounded man to a place of comparative safety, dug him into a more secure position and covered him with his own overcoat. Under the cover of darkness Sergeant Ritso directed a rescue party to the wounded man for a distance of approximately two miles into territory believed to be held by the enemy at that time, successfully rescuing his fellow soldier. His complete disregard for personal safety and his coolness under enemy fire during this humanitarian act reflect the finest traditions of the armed forces and is worthy of the highest commendation.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant John C. Ritso (ASN: 0-6904671), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company E, 601st Tank Destroyer Battalion, 3d Infantry Division, in action during World War II. His 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.