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 Irving J. Van Slyke (ASN: 20270979), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the 27th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 24 June 1944. When a platoon had advanced into an open valley that was covered by enemy machine gun and mortar fire which was inflicting many casualties, Private First Class Van Slyke left his position, ran to and contacted a friendly tank, exposing himself to severe enemy fire. With the rest of his platoon pinned down, he led the tank to the platoon area, maneuvered it into position, thus enabling his comrades to crawl to the protective cover of the tank, which then sheltered their withdrawal.