The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) George R. Whitney (ASN: 02035993), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 24th Infantry Division near Palo, Leyte, Philippine Islands, on 20 October 1944. While advancing upon two enemy pillboxes, a member of Lieutenant Whitney’s platoon was wounded and fell into the fire land. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Whitney, together with another soldier, went out into the open fire lane under heavy enemy fire and carried the wounded man to safety. Lieutenant Whitney’s outstanding display of courage in unhesitatingly risking his life to save one of his men reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.