The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander George Wendelburg (NSN: 0-72318), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CALDWELL (DD-605), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Ormoc, Leyte, Philippine Islands, 11 – 12 December 1944. Screening a convoy which was carrying urgently-needed supplies to isolated U.S. Army forces, Commander Wendelburg skillfully maneuvered his ship and effectively directed her batteries against enemy planes in two heavy daylight air attacks and intermittent night harassment, thereby contributing materially to the successful completion of the mission. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.