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 Private First Class Alex J. Semonza (ASN: 33117040), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 9 February 1945. When his company was temporarily halted by an enemy 40 millimeter dual-purpose gun, Private Semonza, a Rocket Launcher operator, demonstrated outstanding courage by voluntarily attempting to knock out the position. Creeping and crawling under intense fire, he made his way to a position 35 yards from the stronghold. Firing four projectiles, he temporarily silenced the hostile weapon and killed five of its crew. While attempting to launch a fifth round, Private Semonza was killed by an enemy rifleman. 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 and the United States Army.