The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Clifford A. Clemente (ASN: 32633367), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 31st Infantry Division on Morotai Island, Netherlands, East Indies, on 21 December 1944. When during the early morning hours the enemy in the estimated strength of 100 men attacked a native village on the edge of the perimeter of an infantry battalion, Private First Class Clemente was occupying a listening post in a tree with two other men. Though one of his companions was killed and the other wounded by enemy machine gun fire he courageously held his post, continued to give information on the movements of the enemy and called for and directed mortar fire, all the while giving what medical aid he could to his wounded comrade. Completely disregarding his own safety he directed mortar fire so close to his own position that limbs were knocked off the tree and he himself was finally wounded. He continued to direct mortar fire, refusing to let a rescue party attempt to reach him, until the enemy was forced to withdraw. Because of his devotion to duty beyond that expected not only were lives of comrades and natives saved but also the enemy attack was stopped. This act reflects great credit upon Private First Class Clemente and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service.