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 Ralph Goeltzenleuchter (ASN: 35015802), 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 21 April 1945. Shortly after an infantry battalion had secured a strategically important hill overlooking the Irishanh River Bridge, the enemy began a general counterattack in different sectors along the hill. When appraised of the situation, Sergeant Goeltzenleuchter immediately brought his squad into action. After showering the enemy with hand grenades, he led his unit in a furious assault on the Japanese. Concentrating his squad’s fire power on the retreating foe, Sergeant Goeltzenleuchter remained in the forefront of the assault and his inspiring leadership greatly contributed to the complete rout of the enemy. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Goeltzenleuchter, 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.