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 Frank J. Mazalis (ASN: 36228985), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, during World War II. During the advance of his company against Mount Pacawagan on 21 April 1945, Sergeant Mazalis, a squad leader, had moved forward approximately 200 yards with his unit when the lead scouts were fired upon from an enemy pillbox to the direct front, seriously wounding one of the scouts. Sergeant Mazalis moved forward and noticed one wounded man lying in a partially exposed position. Disregarding the continual enemy fire, he dashed across the open trail to the aid of the wounded man. Then Sergeant Mazalis half dragged and half carried the casualty 100 yards down a steep slope to a point where adequate medical care could be given. Immediately after, he climbed the hill, resumed the direction of his squad’s fire and in a short time reduced the enemy strongpoint. 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.