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 Wilford R. Stone (ASN: 20152327), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 24th Infantry Division at Pastrana, Leyte, Philippine Islands, on 20 October 1944. Private Stone’s squad was attacking a large enemy fortification and the leading scout was seriously wounded when only thirty yards from the fortification. At the risk of his own life Private Stone crawled through increasingly heavy enemy fire from machine guns, rifles, and knee mortars, and brought the wounded soldier back to cover and safety. Private Stone’s courageous action in risking his life to save a fellow soldier is worthy of the highest traditions of the service.