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 Sergeant Michael C. Kopack (ASN: 32146019), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 696th Field Artillery Battalion, III Corps, in action against the enemy on 29 September 1944, near *****, France. The infantry launched an attack against a strongly held enemy hill position. Heavy enemy mortar fire inflicted many casualties. Sergeant Kopack, Reconnaissance Sergeant with the Field Artillery Observer accompanying the troops, actually participated in the assault b using his small arms and operating the radio from which the observer called for and directed artillery fire. Sergeant Kopack, exhibiting great courage, eagerly volunteered to accompany the Artillery Observer forward in an attempt to secure a more advantageous observation post which might offer better opportunity to definitely locate and destroy the enemy fire power. While in the act of moving forward through the intense enemy mortar fire, he was killed by a direct hit on the vehicle which he was driving. The gallantry, aggressiveness, and supreme devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Kopack were an inspiration to those who witnessed his daring action and exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States.