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 Cecil Larson (ASN: 37483139), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 43d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, during the period 16 March 1945 to 12 May 1945. During this entire period Private Larson performed his duties in a most superior manner. On one occasion after his company seized a hill and began to dig in, the enemy launched a fierce counterattack. In spite of his wound sustained in this engagement, Private Larson remained in his position and delivered covering fire while the remainder of his company moved to more tenable positions. On another occasion after his company occupied Banzai Hill, the enemy launched two successive counterattacks. Private Larson then dropped his less effective weapon, took a BAR and raked the charging enemy with terrific fire. The courage, coolness and outstanding bravery displayed by Private Larson in these actions are exemplary of the highest standards of an infantryman in combat.