The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Jack L. Beeson (ASN: 0-2024176), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 11th Airborne Division, in action against the enemy near Fort McKinley, Luzon, Philippine Islands, in 1945. Second Lieutenant Beeson’s platoon, acting as the point int eh battalion’s advance to occupy the Japanese-held ridge commanding the southern approach to Fort McKinley was abruptly halted by intense rifle and machine gun fire. With complete disregard for personal safety, Second Lieutenant Beeson advanced in the face of this fire across an open field devoid of cover to a point ten yards form an enemy pillbox which he silenced with hand grenades and rifle fire, killing five Japanese. Moving to a position overlooking and flanking the main point of resistance, he place accurate and sustained fire on the main trench of the remaining pillbox. Despite heavy return fire Second Lieutenant Beeson’s fearless and rapid action enabled his platoon to neutralize the position and the battalion to secure the ridge. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Second Lieutenant Beeson, 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.