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 John E. Forrester (ASN: 34966529), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 304th Infantry Regiment, 76th Infantry Division, in the vicinity of Holstum, Germany, on 25 February 1945. Private Forrester was digging a foxhole during an intense artillery bombardment when members of his squad were wounded by withering machine gun and sniper fire. With utter disregard for personal safety, he went forward three times and evacuated the wounded to safe positions where medical aid could be administered. On his fourth trip, Private Forrester was seriously wounded in the face, but rescued the two remaining comrades before permitting himself to be treated and evacuated. His conspicuous courage and loyal devotion to a fellow soldier exemplifies the highest traditions of the armed forces of the United States.