The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Peter W. Asher (NSN: 0-186711), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against an armed enemy of the United States in Manila, Philippine Islands, on 14 February 1945. During the bitter fighting which resulted in the complete annihilation of a determined enemy who were occupying strongly entrenched positions and pillboxes guarding the intersections of the wreckage-strewn streets in the vicinity of La Salle College, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Asher commanded a naval bomb disposal unit which bore the brunt of the attack. The enemy had so thoroughly mined all avenues of approach that the progress of fighting elements was seriously hampered. Lieutenant Asher, while well in advance of the troops and under intense mortar, machine gun, and sniper fire, worked tirelessly in leading his men to remove mine fields and clear the way for forward movement. Although wounded seriously, through great personal courage and gallant service, he successfully completed his mission, thus materially aiding our forces in annihilating the enemy. His 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 and the United States Naval Service.