The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Herbert B. Kutac (ASN: 38113361), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 25 April 1945. Corporal Kutac volunteered to advance as litter bearer with the assault units of an infantry battalion during an attack against strongly defended Japanese pillboxes and caves. The enemy, in an attempt to halt the advance opened up with a heavy concentration of mortar shells, inflicting many casualties among our troops. While the area was still under intense fire Corporal Kutac led his squad to the aid of the wounded. As he advanced over the shell swept terrain Corporal Kutac was severely wounded in the shoulder. However, disregarding his own wound he remained until every casualty had been cared for and evacuated, and only then did he walk five hundred yards to receive medical attention. 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.