The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Field Artillery), [then First Lieutenant] Allen W. Hawkins (ASN: 0-366766), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 140th Field Artillery Battalion, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, from 7 February to 11 February 1945. As Artillery Liaison Officer with an infantry battalion, Lieutenant Hawkins frequently exposed himself to intense hostile fire in order to direct accurate and devastating fire on enemy positions. He accompanied the advance elements during an assault river crossing, and from a location within seventy five yards of enemy emplacements adjusted fire which neutralized several hostile guns. Although wounded during this action, he refused to leave his post and voluntarily took the place of an artillery forward observer who had been seriously injured by enemy fire. Again Lieutenant Hawkins conducted extremely accurate artillery fire on the Japanese, although exposed to heavy hostile machine gun fire. His service was an invaluable aid to the supported infantry in the successful accomplishment of their mission. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.