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 First Class Francis J. Opela (ASN: 39328540), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 5 February 1945. During an engagement with the enemy in Manila, elements of our forces were trapped by raging fires set by Japanese demolitions and exploding gas drums. Private First Class Francis J. Opela and Private First Class Grover L. M. Tyler volunteered to remain behind to assist in the necessary withdrawal of their company and to aid in the evacuation of two wounded comrades. In order to clear the casualties from the blaze and intense heat, Private Opela and Private Tyler half-carried and dragged each man to places of safety across two street intersections which were being swept by machine gun and rifle fire. Private First Class Opela’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.