(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 Colonel (Infantry) Virgil N. Cordero (ASN: 0-7472), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, 72nd Infantry Regiment, 71st Division, Philippine Army, in action in the Philippine Islands in 1942, during the siege of Bataan . Colonel Cordero’s 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.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in Lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Colonel (Infantry) Virgil N. Cordero (ASN: 0-7472), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, 72nd Infantry Regiment, 71st Division, Philippine Army, in action in Bataan, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 9 April 1942. Upon the termination of the fighting in Bataan, Colonel Cordero was occupying a defensive position near Bagac while awaiting final surrender instructions. During an inspection of the front lines, he heard small arms fire nearby and, inasmuch as orders had been issued not to fire unless attacked by the enemy, he immediately proceeded toward the firing and found a burning ammunition truck being attacked contrary to the terms of the negotiations. Colonel Cordero, with no thought of his own safety, personally directed the extinguishment of the dangerous fire. By his clam and fearless leadership and unhesitating willingness to risk his life, Colonel Cordero prevented an unnecessary engagement with the enemy and loss of life among American soldiers. Colonel Cordero’s 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.