Roscoe J. Sciuti

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Roscoe J. Sciuti (1178077), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 19 – 20 September 1952. Serving as an automatic rifleman, Private First Class Sciuti displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the combat patrol of which he was a member was ambushed forward of the main line of resistance, many casualties were inflicted by the intense enemy fire. The patrol leader was hit and a white phosphorus grenade which he was carrying was set off by the enemy fire, covering his body with the burning material. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety and despite the heavy enemy fire falling in the immediate area, Private First Class Sciuti unhesitatingly ran to the aid of his wounded comrade, covering the burning body with his own in an attempt to extinguish the flames. This attempt failing, he tore off the burning clothing, threw dirt on him and rolled him over and over on the ground. During the entire period, he picked up and threw back several enemy grenades that landed near the wounded Marine. By his gallant and courageous actions and selfless devotion to his fellow man, Private First Class Sciuti served as an inspiration to all who observed him. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.