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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 Captain (Infantry) Paul Altomerianos (ASN: 0-386000), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the Medical Detachment, 3d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, during World War II. When friendly batteries subjected his unit to extremely heavy fire and severed communications during a night attack, Captain Altomerianos crossed an open field under fire and notified the artillery to cease firing. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Medical Corps)

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    16th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 4, 1943
    Headquarters, SEVENTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 32 (October 15, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Captain (Medical Corps) Paul Altomerianos (ASN: 0-386000), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the Medical Detachment, 3d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces west of ***, Sicily, on 4 August 1943. Captain Altomerianos volunteered to clear a supply route through two minefields covered by heavy enemy mortar and artillery fire. While passing through the first field, he encountered intense enemy machine gun and artillery fire. Unswerved in his determination to complete his self-appointed and extremely hazardous task. Captain Altomerianos continued to push forward through the second minefield. During this action he was mortally wounded, but his actions resulted in the replenishment of much needed ammunition and supplies which were the deciding factor in holding the strategic hills west of ***. Captain Altomerianos’ extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.