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 Alvin W. Stemen, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 30 July 1943. Private First Class Stemen crawled forward under intense enemy machine gun fire to reach and assist in the evacuation of a wounded comrade. 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.