The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant [then Staff Sergeant] Antranig S. Churukian (ASN: 36553500), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. On 31 January 1945, Sergeant Churukian gallantly risked his life to crawl 50 yards over open, fire-swept terrain in order to rescue a seriously wounded comrade who was lying helplessly exposed to the hostile fire. On 11 February 1945, when his platoon’s attack was held up by an impassable swamp, he crept under enemy fire to a point from which he reduced a Japanese strong-point, allowing his platoon to cross the swamp at a more suitable point, and continue the attack. On the same day Sergeant Churukian assumed command of the platoon when his platoon sergeant was wounded, and led his unit in the successful accomplishment of its mission. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.