Raito R. Nakashima

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Raito R. Nakashima (39936423), Private, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, 100th Infantry Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 92d Infantry Division, in the vicinity of Castelpoggio, Italy, on 14 April 1945. While fighting off counterattacks by superior enemy forces, Private Nakashima saw four enemy troops attempting to infiltrate into his company’s position through a draw. Exposing himself, he threw a hand grenade at them, killing two and wounding one. Attempting to throw a second grenade, he was wounded twice. In spite of the intense pain, he continued firing at the enemy until he collapsed. His intrepid deed exemplifies the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.