The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant] Mike Capelli (ASN: 33183982), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, in action on 28 May 1944 near Aprilia, Italy. When an enemy strongpoint, comprised of well-entrenched machine guns, impeded the advance of his squad, Staff Sergeant Capelli deployed his men and led them boldly in an assault on the enemy position. Although outnumbered and faced with intense fire, he succeeded after fierce hand-to-hand fighting in destroying the enemy position. His squad then resumed its advance to capture its objective. Staff Sergeant Capelli’s gallantry and fighting spirit are exemplary of the best traditions of the Army of the United States.