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 Willis D. Vandewater (ASN: 37673726), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 37th Infantry Division at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 13 February 1945. In an attack on Japanese positions on Taft Avenue in Manila one of our troops was seriously wounded and unable to move. Private Vandewater began to advance toward the man to administer first aid when the enemy observed him, concentrated fire upon his route of approach and endeavored to explode a land mine nearby in firing at the detonator. Private Vandewater succeeded in reaching the casualty and dragged him fifty yards to safety. Private First Class Vandewater’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.