The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Keichiro Yamato (ASN: 1998650), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 442d Regimental Combat Team, 92d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Italy on 23 April 1945. Two platoons had attacked and pierced hostile defensive positions in a village. The foe withdrew to already by-passed pockets and cut off the assaulting forces. Lieutenant Yamato was ordered to attack with his platoon and relieve the beleaguered units. Constantly exposing himself, he so skillfully executed the attack that the platoon guide was able to jump into the machine gun emplacement and kill the gunner. He then advanced to the trapped platoons, reorganized them, and effectively coordinated their fire. So vigorous was his action that the enemy’s resistance was broken with a staggering total of 40 dead and 115 officers and men taken prisoner. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.