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 Fifth Grade Ernest H. Tholke (ASN: 39413077), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Engineer Combat Battalion, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 11 May 1945. While cutting an important supply road up a steep hill, Corporal Tholke was forced to withdraw from his bulldozer because of intense hostile fire. Twice Corporal Tholke attempted to reach his dozer, but each time he was compelled to take shelter. Finally, with the aid of a smoke screen, he reached his vehicle and, despite Japanese fire which splintered his cab and wounded him, he successfully moved the dozer from the line of fire. Corporal Tholke’s courageous act in removing the vital engineering equipment enabled work to continue on the supply road and contributed much to the successful completion of the operation. 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.