The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Masayuki Otake (ASN: 30104261), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, in action against the enemy on 20 October 1944, near Bruyeres, France. Staff Sergeant Otake skillfully deployed his mortar platoon to relieve a ration party halted by intense fire from a strong hostile force. Disregarding his own safety, he rushed an enemy emplacement alone, killing two Germans and wounding two others. With his rifle out of action and an enemy soldier attempting to hurl a grenade at him, Staff Sergeant Otake quickly hurled his own grenade, killing his antagonist instantly. Then moving his men toward a friendly company, he participated in routing the enemy force, personally accounting for one machine gunner. Staff Sergeant Otake’s valiant and outstanding leadership reflects the highest traditions of the Army of the United States.