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 Ybarbo (ASN: 38026352), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action on 17 August 1944 in France. While the 2d Platoon of Company K was assaulting a well-organized enemy strong point, the attackers were pinned to the ground by heavy hostile small arms, mortar and artillery fire. Sergeant Ybarbo was assigned the mission of leading his squad to the rear of the enemy position in order to relieve the pressure on the remainder of the platoon. He skillfully maneuvered the men to the left rear of the strong point and there built up a line of fire. When he realized that his squad’s fire power was insufficient to dislodge the well-entrenched enemy, Sergeant Ybarbo swiftly organized his men and led a bold and determined assault. Using his bayonet, rifle and grenades in the intense fighting which followed, he alone killed three of the hostile soldiers, wounded two and captured six prisoners. Although he was painfully wounded, Sergeant Ybarbo directed his men in overcoming the resistance, thereby enabling his platoon to continue its advance and achieve its objective. His gallant action reflects great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.