The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Corporal] Harry J. Buffone (ASN: 35027386), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 18 September 1944 near ****, Holland. Sergeant Buffone, Company I, 3d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, displayed superior courage and leadership in maintaining an effective defense of advanced road blocks vital to the protection of a glider landing zone. With five riflemen and one BAR Team, Sergeant Buffone was ordered to hold succeeding blocks at all costs and fall back only under extreme pressure. When the furthermost post was lost, he defended the next block for four hours, although surrounded on three sides, and kept the regiment abreast of the situation by phone. On two occasions, he personally repaired the line under fire. He beat off the enemy alone with his BAR until his men had withdrawn to the next roadblock. Then, firing from the hip, he fell back to join his men at the new position, from which he beat off all further enemy attacks. Sergeant Buffone’s superior leadership, outstanding courage and determined performance of duty were responsible for the superb defense of positions critical to the security of the glider LZ. His action won the unqualified admiration and support of his men and reflect the highest credit on the Airborne Forces of the United States Army.