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 Sergeant Michael Petrilak (ASN: 33073829), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company H, 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, in action on 26 May 1944 near Carano, Italy. While his organization was defending against a strong enemy attack, friendly artillery fire fell dangerously close to positions occupied by Sergeant Petrilak’s company. Having no radio or wire communications, Sergeant Petrilak ran through a heavy enemy concentration to notify the battalion observation post of the situation. To save time, Sergeant Petrilak chose to cross an unmarked minefield between him and the observation post. After reporting to the observation post, Sergeant Petrilak was wounded by enemy artillery, while en route to rejoin his company. After having his wound dressed, Sergeant Petrilak against started to his company and was killed en route. Sergeant Petrilak’s gallantry and determination reflect high credit on the Armed Forces.