(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) Lester Lewes Wheeler (ASN: 0-19951), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on the Philippine Islands, in 1944 and 1945. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Wheeler, 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.