The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private John Tamao (ASN: 32906674), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 2 December 1944 near Engwiller, France. Private Tamao, a member of a forward observer’s party for an 81-mm. mortar platoon providing close support for the rifle companies during an attack on an enemy hill position, moved up with the forward elements to obtain unobstructed observation. Throughout the attack he was subjected to heavy enemy shelling as well as machine-gun and small arms fire, but he continued his observation despite the enemy fire, relaying fire orders by means of his radio, and often remaining in exposed positions in order to make the mortar concentrations directed as accurate as possible. Private Tamao was fatally wounded by an enemy shell during this action, but his courage and devotion to duty were instrumental in inflicting severe losses on the enemy and materially assisted in the capture of the battalion objective. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.