The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Charles V. Battersby (ASN: 16068848), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Manila, Philippine Islands, on 8 April 1945. When his unit was momentarily held up by an enemy machine gun, Private First Class Battersby volunteered to lead a small flanking party with the mission of destroying a Japanese machine gun. His movements as he approached the hostile weapon were detected, and when the enemy gunner directed his fire on the maneuvering squad, Private First Class Battersby fell mortally wounded. His diversionary action paved the way for a general assault by his comrades, and the opposition was quickly overcome. Private First Class Battersby’s willingness to exposed himself dangerously to further our cause although it culminated in the sacrifice of his life, typified the spirit of our troops which led eventually to victory. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Battersby, 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.