The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Nicholas J. Screnci (ASN: 33142546), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. While acting as lead scout during the advance against Baguio on 23 April 1945, Private Screnci encountered six enemy soldiers preparing a machine gun position. Halting his unit, he courageously crawled to an exposed position on the hostile flank, quickly killed five Japanese soldiers and wounded the sixth. Then, continuing the advance, he came upon a group of enemy located in caves. When he was fired upon he took cover, and from this position killed two of the enemy. Our forces were halted, and the enemy immediately launched a counterattack. However, Private Screnci grimly remained at his advance position and laid down a heavy volume of rifle fire which was instrumental in repulsing the hostile attack. Later, while still under Japanese fire, he dragged two casualties to a defiladed position and administered first aid. Private Screnci’s combat efficiency and devotion to duty exemplified the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.