The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Paul J. Looper (ASN: 34648751), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 27 February 1945. When our forces were delayed by heavy machine gun and rifle fire from a pillbox before entering the Legislative Building in Manila, Private Looper volunteered to knock out the Japanese strong-point. He moved over an area void of cover to within five feet of the pillbox, fired his flame-thrower into it, destroyed the occupants and their weapons. Our forces were then able to advance into the building. Private Looper’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.