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) Jack H. Van Duyn, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of Company C, 1st Battalion, 163d Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Soputa, New Guinea, on 16 January 1943. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Van Duyn, 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.