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 Yoshio Kato (ASN: 30109547), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, in action against the enemy on 20 October 1944, near Bruyeres, France. Private First Class Kato’s section was ordered to set up its machine guns to protect the left flank of a rifle company during a strong enemy attack. A tree burst wounded four of the men in the gun section, including Private First Class Kato. Although fatally wounded, he dragged himself through an intense artillery barrage to the side of a wounded comrade and administered first aid. Then, without thought of his own condition, he set up his weapon and opened fire on an enemy patrol. Suffering from extreme pain, he crawled forward and hurled a grenade which effectively routed the enemy force. The heroism of Private First Class Kato was an inspiration to all and exemplifies the highest traditions of the American Infantryman.