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) Eugene M. Socha (ASN: 0-409935), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Battalion S-3 with Headquarters, 3d Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Mount Pacawagan, Luzon, Philippine Island, on 20 April 1945. Captain Socha, while leading a reconnaissance patrol, moved forward from the main body with another officer in order to observe a critical area Both officers were wounded by enemy machine gun fire. Captain Socha at once gave first aid to his wounded fellow officer and removed him to safety. Then, instead of leaving for medical aid for himself, he remained on duty to insure the prompt delivery of vital information which he had obtained. Later, as he proceeded to an aid station, he encountered two enemy soldiers whom he killed by firing from the hip. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Socha, 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.