The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Vincent R. Olenick (ASN: 35006367), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 22 February 1945. Sergeant Olenick was leading his squad in an attack against a strong enemy-held building in Manila when it encountered fierce hostile machine gun and rifle fire as it approached the third floor. Sergeant Olenick immediately discovered that the fire came from the corridor on his right, and he observed the enemy occupying a massively barricaded room a short distance away. He then courageously dashed across the fire swept corridor, crawled to the face of the enemy barricade, and threw hand grenades into it. His bold action completely confused the Japanese, and Sergeant Olenick, directing his squad to positions along the corridor, led an assault which destroyed the enemy manning the barricade. 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.