MASAO AWAKUNI, on February 8, 1944, distinguished himself in Italy while advancing an attack. His company encountered an enemy tank. Private Awakuni was called from the support platoon to attempt to fire at the tank with his rocket launcher. Although he had poor protective cover he took the tank under fire. In three rounds, he was successful in destroying the tank. He was pinned down for 10 hours before he could return to friendly lines.

Mr. Awakuni joined the Legion of Valor on December 21, 1944. He was a LIFE MEMBER and resided in Hawaii.