The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Henry D. Leitner, United States Army, for gallantry in action on 19 January 1942, against an armed enemy of the United States. On this date Captain Leitner was in command of Company D, 92d Infantry, 91st Division, Philippine Army, USAFFE, operating I nth e jungle north of K.P. 170 on the Moron-Bagae Road, Bataan, Philippine Islands. Being informed that hostile units had penetrated to his right rear, cutting off communications to the rear, he immediately led a machine gun platoon and a section of volunteer riflemen through the jungle and over mountainous terrain to a position to place flanking fire on the hostile position. Throughout the entire afternoon in the face of hostile fire, Captain Leitner, with utter disregard for his personal safety, personally directed the fire and emplacement of his guns. By his tireless energy, his ability to lead, the above gallant act resulted in t he efforts of further penetration by the enemy in his area to be greatly retarded. 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.