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 Rocco A. DiCristina (ASN: 32008835), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 8th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in France on 11 June 1944. On that date, Private First Class DiCristina was moving forward with elements of his company under heavy enemy fire to locate an enemy machine gun nest. The enemy machine gun opened up and killed the company commander. With utter disregard for his own life, Private First Class DiCristina charged forward spraying the machine gun nest with automatic rifle fire. He was severely wounded but continued firing until his magazine was emptied. Replacing his magazine, he continued firing until he was physically unable to advance upon the enemy. His action was a dominant factor in the destruction of this enemy strongpoint but resulted in his untimely death. 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.