The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Harry Deakin (ASN: 36687372), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 5 February 1945. While attacking an enemy stronghold in Manila, Private Deakin’s company was temporarily halted by intense machine gun and rifle fire, which caused many casualties. Private Deakin, a Browning Automatic Rifleman, voluntarily moved to an exposed position from which he effectively covered the evacuation of the wounded. When he observed one wounded man lying in an exposed position, he handed his rifle to a comrade, and immediately started to the rescue. Although hostile fire was intense, and he had to cross a small bridge entirely exposed to enemy machine gun fire to reach the injured man, Private Deakin courageously accomplished his purpose and dragged the casualty to safety. His heroic action saved the life of the wounded man. 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 and the United States Army.