The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) James E. Kennington (ASN: 0-1304740), 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 3 February 1945. The platoon commanded by Lieutenant Kennington was leading the advance of our troops when it reached a river and discovered that the railroad bridge had been destroyed by the enemy. Arranging to have his men cross the river downstream, Lieutenant Kennington alone crawled over the remnants of the bridge in order to divert attention from the main force. Although he drew heavy fire from two hostile machine guns, he successfully effected the crossing and joined the platoon on the other side. Then, although in advance of his company’s front lines and cut off completely from our main force by the river, Lieutenant Kennington aggressively led his men from one enemy installation to another, destroying five pillboxes and killing twenty-one Japanese soldiers. All enemy positions were eliminated and the platoon waited for seven hours in these advanced positions for the arrival of the main force. Lieutenant Kennington’s gallant and aggressive actions were primarily responsible for the successful completion of the company’s mission. 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.