(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery) Robert Allen Ports, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 126th Field Artillery Battalion, 32d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 28 April 1945. Lieutenant Colonel Ports battalion was engaged in the assault in very mountainous terrain that resulted in opening the vital Villa Verde Trail. Lieutenant Colonel Ports exposed himself to intense sniper fire in order to direct a liaison airplane into position to adjust fire on a concealed enemy strong point. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Ports, 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.