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 Donald P. Evans (ASN: 35009137), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 14 February, 1945. When his platoon leader was wounded during an attack against strongly prepared enemy positions, Sergeant Evans took command and successfully continued the attack. Sergeant Evans moved aggressively forward across open fields which afforded the enemy grazing machine gun fire, killing 10 Japanese himself. In spite of great physical exhaustion, he stimulated his men to drive forward to the successful completion of their mission. Through the gallant leadership of Sergeant Evans, the difficult assignment was accomplished and the men in his platoon were inspired with new confidence and courage that insured the ultimate complete victory. 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.