The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fourth Grade, [then Technician Fifth Grade] Elbert H. Watson (ASN: 84114792), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, during World War II. When his platoon was subjected to the withering, grazing fire of an enemy machine gun at Mount Pacawagan on 29 April 1945, Corporal Watson rushed to the aid of a wounded member of his platoon and began administering first aid. Intent with accomplishing his duties as an aid man, he barely escaped serious injury and possible death, when another man near him was also wounded. Having finished with the first casualty, Corporal Watson courageously went to the aid of the second man and remained in an exposed portion under the continual fire in order to administer first aid. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.