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 Staff Sergeant Charles V. Kettler (ASN: 20506258), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 11 July 1943. During combat operations when his platoon’s advance was held up by heavy enemy machine gun fire, Sergeant Kettler located the hostile section and aggressively moved forward alone in an attempt to eliminate it. Upon reaching a point twenty-five yards removed from his objective he threw a hand grenade which missed its mark. Disregarding the intensity of the enemy’s fire he crawled closer, grenaded the position as he moved, completely demolished it, and enabled his platoon to continue its advance. In doing so Sergeant Kettler sacrificed his life. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.