The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant John Dewar, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 158th Regimental Combat Team, in action against the enemy on Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 18 March 1945. On the night of March 18, 1945, an isolated Infantry squad was maintaining a road block in advance of the main body of troops. It underwent heavy enemy artillery fire, which caused several casualties. Fully aware of the hazards involved, Staff Sergeant Dewar volunteered to move at night through enemy territory to aid the beleaguered squad. Upon reaching the roadblock, Staff Sergeant Dewar assisted in adjusting artillery fire on the enemy positions, which resulted in the neutralization of the enemy mortar fire. This intrepid soldier then remained with the squad throughout the night to bolster the roadblock defenses which had been weakened as a result of the casualties suffered during the mortar barrage, and he assisted in repelling several enemy attacks. 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.