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) John W. Zentz (ASN: 0-415917), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 13 March 1944 and on 24 March 1944. When his reconnaissance patrol came under heavy fire on 13 March, First Lieutenant Zentz displayed initiative and courage in fighting valiantly until he was wounded. On 24 March, First Lieutenant Zentz volunteered to lead his platoon in an attack on a pocket of Japanese who remained behind our lines. Taking his position behind the first tank he advanced, directing his men and the movement and fire of the armored vehicles. He continued his gallant fight until killed by a sniper’s bullet. The fearless tenacity and devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Zentz inspired his men who pressed the attack, recapturing our positions and annihilating the enemy. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Zentz, 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.