The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Donald W. Davidson (ASN: 38590896), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 24 January 1945. Private First Class Davidson was a member of a patrol which encountered an enemy road block manned by an estimated 50 Japanese, armed with light and heavy machine guns and rifles, supported by three light tanks. During the patrol maneuver across the rice fields to by-pass the roadblock, Private First Class Davidson went to the assistance of one of the wounded members of the patrol. He alternately ran and crawled to the man, administering first aid and then assisted him to the rear. Although both men were harassed by enemy rifle fire, Private First Class Davidson deliberately slowed his pace to correspond to that of the wounded man. When his companion’s wound became so painful that further movement was impossible, Private First Class Davidson secret ed the man from enemy observation in a small ditch and made his way back to his unit to organize and direct a rescue squad. His prompt action and courage saved the life of his comrade. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Davidson, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.