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 (Chaplain’s Corps) Gerald D. Desmond, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Regimental Chaplain of the 123d Infantry Regiment, 33d Infantry Division at Luzon, Philippine Islands, during World War II. Captain Desmond, with utter disregard for his own life, left the comparative safety of his fox-hole to reassure and comfort the wounded and dying and on several occasions administered Last Rites of the Church amid bursting enemy shells. 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.