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 Charlie L. Dorton (ASN: 38423676), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 10 February 1945. When a member of his company was hit by enemy fire and lay in an exposed position, Sergeant Dorton rushed to his comrade’s assistance. Finding that the man was dead, Sergeant Dorton started back toward his covered position but was painfully wounded in the jaw before he reached safety. Lying in an exposed position, Sergeant Dorton dressed his wounds as best he could, but would not allow anyone to come near him because of the hostile fire. Sergeant Dorton remained alone at his position for three hours until a boat arrived to evacuate him across an estuary to the aid station. Sergeant Dorton alone made his way under enemy fire to the craft. While returning to the friendly shore the boat was hit by enemy fire and began to sink. Despite his wound and long wait for medical treatment, Sergeant Dorton quickly grabbed a paddle and helped maneuver the boat to shore. His quick action enabled another seriously wounded man in the boat to be safely evacuated. 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.