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 Charles H. Conklin (ASN: 32036642), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 803d Engineer Battalion, in action at Luzon, Philippine Islands, from 11 to 20 December 1941. At the outbreak of hostilities, Private Conklin was serving with the 803d Engineer Battalion in the construction of new runways at Del Carmen Field. Upon the approach of 54 enemy bombers, he courageously remained with his equipment and kept it under control despite heavy bombing of the immediate vicinity by Japanese planes. Although the field was the target of relentless enemy attack, for ten days he cheerfully and willingly continued working on the project thereby making possible its effective use by our aircraft in a gallant effort to stem the savage tide of Japanese aggression. Through his courageous stand and unremitting determination to complete a strategic air base, Private Conklin made a noteworthy contribution to the heroic defense of the Philippine Islands. His gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.