The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Sylvester Michael Beckman, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 169th Field Artillery Battalion, 43d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 1 January 1945, at Palguyod, Luzon, Philippine Islands. On the morning of 21 January, Sergeant John Cordeiro’s Battery was in position at Palguyod and was being shelled by enemy artillery. His battery was given order to fire counter-battery. Rather than expose the whole section to enemy fire he ordered them to their dugouts and he proceeded to fire counter-battery single-handed, but in the act of loading his gun was killed by enemy artillery. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty were an inspiration to his men. Private First Class Sylvester M. Beckman, a member of Sergeant Cordeiro’s section, immediately and on his own volition, left the security of his foxhole and went to the assistance of his chief of section. Disregarding enemy shells that were landing nearby, he picked up a projectile and was in the act of loading the gun when an enemy shell landed in his howitzer position, mortally wounding him. Private First Class Beckman’s gallant courage and full devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.