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 Kenneth W. Hemler (ASN: 36570224), 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 30 April 1945. When his company came under an intense enemy mortar barrage which caused many casualties at Mount Pacawagan, Private First Class Hemler voluntarily left his covered position and exposed himself to the deadly shelling to assist the wounded. He alone carried six seriously injured comrades through the continual hostile fire to a medical aid station. Private First Class Hemler’s courage and unselfish devotion to his fellow soldiers exemplified the highest traditions of military service and reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.