The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Vernon W. Classen (ASN: 0-392435), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, from 24 to 27 March 1944. Captain Classen demonstrated exceptional leadership ability and fighting spirit while directing a successful tank-supported counterattack against strongly-held Japanese positions. During the day-long battle, Captain Classen repeatedly exposed himself to intense hostile fire to coordinate the movements of his attacking forces. At one point when the advance was slowed, he stood up in plain view of enemy riflemen and killed four Japanese with well-aimed fire from his carbine. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Classen, 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.