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 Captain (Infantry) Felix B. Lester (ASN: 0-294972), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 30 July 1943. When the leading elements of the company were pinned down by intense enemy machine gun fire Captain Lester went forward, took personal command, and by his exemplary actions and leadership so encouraged his men that they surged on to their objective. During the final phase of this action Captain Lester was killed by enemy sniper fire, but his aggressiveness under fire prior to his death was the key to the successful culmination of the attack. 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.