The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class John Patrick McTaggart, Jr. (ASN: 33069392), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 77th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Leyte, Philippine Islands, on 13 December 1944. When Private First Class McTaggart’s company came under heavy enemy fire, a platoon messenger was sent to an adjoining unit with an important tactical order. Private First Class McTaggart, having heard the order and upon seeing the messenger fall wounded, voluntarily moved forward across approximately four hundred yards of open rice paddies, under devastating fire, to deliver the message. Upon returning he was mortally wounded, but in spite of his condition assisted in pulling another casualty to safety, although he was exposed to continuous enemy fire. By this courageous and self-sacrificing act, Private First Class McTaggart saved the lives of many of his comrades and contributed to the material success of the operations. Private First Class McTaggart’s 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.