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 Leon G. Svinkunas (ASN: 36726711), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Troop B, 6th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized), III Corps, in action against the enemy on 14 December 1944, in the town of *****, Germany. Private First Class Svinkunas’ platoon was subjected to a heavy artillery and mortar barrage followed by an enemy counterattack. From positions on high ground, the enemy was able to cover the escape route of the platoon. Private First Class Svinkunas and a comrade, with complete disregard for their personal safety, unhesitatingly engaged an enemy machine gun crew about 50 yards away. Despite intense counterfire, he continued his task until mortally wounded. The gallant action and supreme devotion to duty of Private First Class Svinkunas reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.