The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Infantry), [then Captain] John Patrick O’Day (ASN: 0-2030135), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Philippine Guerilla Forces near Barrio Luncuas, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 22 February 1944. When a force of Japanese, guided by spies, surprised the concealed encampment of Major O’Day and ten of his men, all sick with malaria, he immediately began a valiant resistance. Killing two enemy soldiers and repelling the remainder, he successfully covered the withdrawal of his weakened soldiers. Although seriously wounded in the encounter, he boldly maintained his stand and, by quick thinking and skillful marksmanship, saved the life of one of his men who lay wounded and unconscious. Through his courageous actions, Major O’Day enabled his men to elude capture by the Japanese and set an example of heroism worthy of the highest traditions of military service.