The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Virgil L. Hamby (ASN: 37068657), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 2 February 1945. During an attack on strong enemy fortifications in a densely wooded sector, Sergeant Hamby, an assistant squad leader, was assigned the mission of neutralizing a hostile machine gun position. After formulating his plan and carefully instructing his men, he led the group to within 30 feet of the emplacement although enemy machine gun and rifle fire was intense. As his unit rushed the position in the final assault, Sergeant Hamby was severely wounded. Disregarding his painful wound, he refused the privilege of evacuation, and remained to retain complete control of his men as they advanced. His excellent leadership and high courage were instrumental in the successful reduction of the enemy gun emplacement, enabling our troops to advance and destroy all enemy resistance in the area. Sergeant Hamby subsequently died from the wound received in this engagement. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Hamby, 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.