The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant John Van Wyk (ASN: 36704994), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 10 October 1944, in Germany. The enemy launched a vigorous counterattack with six tanks and approximately a company of Infantry. Sergeant Van Wyk was in charge of an outpost in the path of the enemy attack. At great risk to his life, Sergeant Van Wyk climbed a tree within full view of the enemy and directed mortar and artillery fire on the enemy. So successful was the fire that the enemy was forced to withdraw after three of the tanks had been knocked out of action. Sergeant Van Wyk’s assistance in directing mortar and artillery fire on the tanks, while exposing himself to intense enemy fire, was a determining factor in repelling the enemy counterattack. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Van Wyk, 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.