James A. Rutkoski

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James A. Rutkoski, 33615121, Private First Class, Infantry, Company “C”, 254th Infantry Regiment, for gallantry in action on 25 April 1945, in the vicinity of Leipheim, Germany. The enemy launched a night counter-attack against Leipheim when Private First Class Rutkoski was a member of a squad on outpost duty. The impetus of the attack forced the units to the right and left to withdraw, leaving Private First Class Rutkoski’s squad in position. This squad bore the brunt of the counter-attack for an hour and a half before they were surrounded and captured. When the action was finished, sixty enemy dead were found in front of the outpost position. Such gallantry and devotion to duty is in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.