Walter J. Nowak, Second Lieutenant, Infantry, United States Army. For extraordinary heroism in action, on the night of 11 May 1944, near Tremensuoli, Italy. When his platoon leader and platoon sergeant became casualties in an artillery and mortar barrage, Second Lieutenant Nowak (then Sergeant and squad leader) assumed command of the platoon, rallied his men and continued the advance. After leading his men through a swiftly moving stream, he preceded the advance through a heavily mined area, probing with his bayonet for mines. While moving around the edge of a hill, the platoon encountered crossfire from three mutually supporting pillboxes situated on the objective. Ordering his men to engage the enemy in a fire fight, Second Lieutenant Nowak advanced up a bare slope to the first pillbox. Raising himself to the level of an embrasure he threw several grenades into the position, killing its five defenders. Continuing his advance to the second and third pillboxes, he repeated his tactics, killing thirteen Germans. Driving two other Germans into the open he engaged them in a fierce bayonet fight and succeeded in killing both. The courage, skill at arms and able leadership displayed by Second Lieutenant Nowak were an inspiration to the entire platoon.

Mr. Nowak was a life member and resided in Massachusetts. He joined the L.O.V. prior to 1948.