The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Ethan R. Cunningham (ASN: 0-377146), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 26th Cavalry Regiment, Philippine Scouts, in the Philippine Islands, on 22 January 1942. With complete disregard for his own safety and great devotion to the welfare of the members of his platoon, Lieutenant Cunningham exposed himself to enemy fire by moving forward in an attempt to assist a member of his platoon who had been shot by an enemy sniper. He was killed in this brave and unselfish attempt and his action served as an example to all members of his regiment of all the finer attributes of an officer.