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 Jerry Lanik (ASN: 33153760), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division at Palo, Leyte, Philippine Islands, on 22 October 1944. Private Lanik was machine gunner when his position was attacked by an unknown number of Japanese. A Japanese ammunition dump was located to the left of the position and when the Japs ran for the dump Private Lanik fired on the dump, destroying it and killing approximately twelve of the enemy. A nearby building caught fire sending flames over his head. He was wounded by rifle fire yet he remained with his gun until mortally wounded by a hand grenade. Through his gallant efforts the Japanese attack was repulsed. Private Lanik’s fearless performance, beyond the call of duty, and his spirit of self-sacrifice is worthy of the highest traditions of the military service.