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 Harold W. Keefer (ASN: 35235955), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 8 February 1945. During a fierce fire fight, Private Keefer observed an enemy group attempting to emplace a machine gun to the right rear of his platoon. Realizing the danger which would arise if the weapon was successfully put in operation, he left his position, crawled through intense enemy mortar and machine gun fire to within fifty feet of the Japanese crew and destroyed them. Later, Private Keefer was mortally wounded as he participated in an assault on an enemy-held building. Private Keefer’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, his unit, and the United States Army.