The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade [Private First Class] Forest C. Lawson (ASN: 17069391), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 11th Airborne Division, in action against the enemy on Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 3 February 1945. While engaged in an attack against heavily fortified enemy positions, the squad of which Technician Fifth Grade Lawson was a member suddenly came under intense machine gun fire and suffered several casualties. Exposing himself to the hostile fire, Technician Fifth Grade Lawson courageously moved forward alone to aid his wounded comrades. He administered first aid to the wounded and evacuated them to a place of safety. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technician Fifth Grade Lawson, 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 Army.