The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Toshio Suyematsu (ASN: 20949164), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Cannon Company, 442d Regimental Combat Team, in action against the enemy on 22 – 24 October and 28 – 29 October 1944, near Biffontaine, France. Sergeant Suyematsu was a forward observer with the 100th Battalion during the unit’s isolation near Biffontaine. When he was directed to lay a creeping barrage on the reverse side of a hill to forestall enemy counterattack against friendly positions on the opposite side, he guided the barrage from his OP until the rounds were just clearing the trees above him. Despite the ever present danger of tree bursts, and a subsequent counter barrage by the enemy which came in over the ridge and bracketed him between two curtains of fire, he continued his fire mission until certain that he had discouraged any contemplated counter-attack. During the subsequent days he twice disregarded hostile fire to aid seriously wounded comrades and refused medical treatment for his own wounds in order to remain in action with his unit. By his courage, determination and devotion to duty, Sergeant Suyematsu was a source of inspiration to his men and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Army.