Nicola A. Vernese

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Nicola A. Vernese (42104244), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March, 9 March, and 7 April 1945. As a medical aid man for a rifle platoon, Private Vernese exposed himself to hostile fire without regard for his own safety in order to bring aid to members of his platoon. On 9 March he moved up under intense artillery and mortar fire, and performed an emergency amputation, saving the life of a wounded soldier. On 7 April he moved into enemy territory under cover of darkness to render aid to a wounded French laborer. Through his actions Private Vernese greatly inspired members of his platoon and his devotion to duty reflects great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.