The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Adolph F. Hemker (ASN: 362889918), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Regiment, in action against the enemy at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 15 March 1944. Shortly before dawn the Japanese captured a pillbox adjacent o Private First Class Hemker’s position. From this point, they directed heavy fire to provide effective cover for infiltrating attackers. Determined to neutralize their strongpoint, Private First Class Hemker voluntarily crawled into a connecting trench and courageously advanced toward the enemy-held pillbox. In doing so he was mortally wounded. By his exemplary couagte in undertaking a hazardous mission at the cost of his life he so inspired his comrades to renewed aggressiveness that soon thereafter the enemy attack was successfully repulsed. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Hemker, 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.