The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John A. Wendt (ASN: 0-1316352), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 11th Airborne Division, in action against the enemy on Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 6 May 1945. During an attack against the enemy, First Lieutenant Wendt, on observing that leading elements of the battalion of which he was a member were held up by hostile machine gun and mortar fire, led a tank destroyer across exposed fire-swept terrain. This gallant officer decimated the target areas and directed the tank destroyer to fire on the enemy positions. When the tank destroyer was rendered inoperative, First Lieutenant Wendt guided another tank destroyer into firing position and directed its fire. As a result, three hostile machine guns, four pillboxes, and one mortar were put out of action. First Lieutenant Wendt’s courageous action contributed materially to the success of the unit’s attack, and is in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service.