Louis C. Stamatakos

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 9 July 1918 (amended by act of 25 July 1963), has awarded the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Louis C. Stamatakos, 332d Bombardment Squadron, 94th Bombardment Group (H). For gallantry in action on 28 February 1945, while serving as a crew member of a B-17 Bomber, 332d Bombardment Squadron, 94th Bombardment Group (H), in support of combat operations in Kassel, Germany. While participating in an aerial mission, Staff Sergeant Stamatakos risked his life by attempting to free an armed bomb caught in the bomb bay doors. Unable to land without detonating the bomb, he struck the unexploded munition repeatedly with a fire axe to dislodge it. After several attempts, Staff Sergeant Stamatakos was able to free the bomb, allowing his crewmembers to return safely to England. Staff Sergeant Stamatakos’ bravery in action is in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.