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 Jack C. Lawson (ASN: 36743734), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. During one attack against Mount Pacawagan on 1 May 1945, Private Lawson served as a litter bearer, helping to evacuate casualties from an assaulting rifle company. While traveling over a slightly used trail, through difficult terrain, the litter party was ambushed by a group of Japanese. Realizing the necessity of getting the wounded men to the aid station, Private Lawson, together with two other members of the group, took one of the litters and attempted to pass the hostile trail block. While making the attempt Private Lawson was seriously wounded in the hand. However, he courageously continued toward the aid station until extreme pain in his hand made it impossible for him to carry the litter. Private Lawson’s devotion to a wounded comrade was in the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.