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 Herbert Born (ASN: 36460122), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 16 February 1945. When tanks, demolitions, and grenades were unsuccessful in dislodging the Japanese from a well-fortified pillbox in a building of the Philippine General Hospital, Private First Class Born volunteered to operate a flame thrower against the position. Running and dodging as best he could with his bulky equipment, he crossed Taft Avenue through the line of fire of an enemy machine gun, maneuvered to within ten feet of the emplacement, and burned it out. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Born, 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.