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 Staff Sergeant Casimer J. Loppatto (ASN: 32215580), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 137th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, France, on 27 September 1944. When the enemy attacked the main line of resistance established by the 1st Battalion, 137th Infantry Regiment, a counter attack was ordered. Sergeant Loppatto, a squad leader, led an attack on the enemy emplacement. He was mortally wounded but, giving primary consideration to the success of his mission, sent for another noncommissioned officer to take charge of the squad. Sergeant Loppatto died of his wounds while shouting directions and words of encouragement to his men as they continued their advance upon the enemy. His gallantry, tenacity of purpose and zealous devotion to duty are in accord with the military traditions of the United States.