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 John L. Lawry (ASN: 36856137), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. At Mount Pacawagan on 29 April 1945, when deadly rifle fire from a single enemy in a well constructed position delayed the forward movement of his platoon, Private Lawry crawled to within a short distance of the pillbox and threw hand grenades at it. However, the emplacement was so constructed that grenades were ineffective. Then, after crawling to within ten feet of the position, Private Lawry rushed forward and engaged the enemy in hand-to-hand combat, killing the Japanese and enabling his unit to successfully accomplish its 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, his unit, and the United States Army.