The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant George J. Cebula (ASN: 36297990), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 11th Airborne Division on Leyte, Philippine Islands on 6 December 1944. During an attack against the enemy, the advance of the platoon of which Sergeant Cebula was a member was held up by intense hostile machine gun fire. Sergeant Cebula moved forward and single-handedly attacked the enemy machine gun position. Although his rifle became inoperative, this intrepid soldier continued the assault, armed only with a pistol, and destroyed the machine gun. This heroic action enabled the platoon to continue its attack. Sergeant Cebula’s great courage, daring initiative, and keen determination to close with and destroy the enemy exemplify the highest traditions upon which the military forces of the United States have been founded.