The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Henry D. Billings (ASN: 35015147), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy art Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 2 February 1945. Sergeant Billings, with the aid of three men, had just completed setting up an ammunition dump when six enemy soldiers were discovered hiding in adjacent foxholes. Although outnumbered by the enemy, who were firing a light machine gun, Sergeant Billings and his men maintained a holding fire until five additional Americans arrived. Then, organizing these latter five to provide covering fire, Sergeant Billings led his three men in an assault on each hostile position in turn. Six Japanese were killed and the light machine gun was captured as a result of Sergeant Billings’ aggressive leadership. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Billings, 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.