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) Orville C. Wendt, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 19 July 1943. Disregarding his personal safety, Captain Wendt aggressively advanced into the face of enemy fire, assisted in the extrication of his wounded personnel, and repeatedly exposed himself in moving among his squad in order to direct and steady them in the face of heavy enemy fire. 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.