The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Sergeant [then Technical Sergeant] Kenneth J. Holler (ASN: 6937635), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 321st Infantry Regiment, 81st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on Pelilu Island, Palau Group, on 18 October 1944. As a platoon leader, First Sergeant Holler observed a wounded soldier lying on an exposed ridge. Ignoring enemy mortar, machine gun, and rifle fire then falling in the area, First Sergeant Holler moved to the side of the wounded man, administered first aid, and with the assistance of another moved the casualty to a covered position. Later observing another wounded man unable to move because of enemy machine gun fire, First Sergeant Holler crawled to his position and assisted him to a covered position and there administered first aid. First Sergeant Holler’s gallant actions were an inspiration to his platoon and his 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.