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 Sergeant John M. Zangerle (ASN: 37146204), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division in the Philippine Islands. On 14 February 1945, Sergeant Zangerle’s platoon was assigned the mission of driving the enemy from a wrecked building in Manila. While one squad made a flanking movement, Sergeant Zangerle and two riflemen dashed forward thirty yards to the front of the building. Covered by his two comrades, Sergeant Zangerle crawled the remaining few yards to the doorway of the structure. He advanced forward placing effective rifle fire on the position until he was close enough to throw a fragmentation grenade into the aperture of the pillbox. Sergeant Zangerle’s courageous action killed six enemy soldiers in the pillbox and enabled his platoon to advance, mop-up the remaining enemy, and occupy the strategic building without casualties to themselves. Sergeant Zangerle’s actions, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service, reflecting great credit on himself, the 37th Infantry Division, and the United States Army. He gallantly gave his life for his country.