The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Francis X. Lonsway (ASN: 36551057), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. On 15 January 1945, near Cainiling, Sergeant Lonsway and part of his squad were occupying exposed positions on the side of a road, covering the attack of their comrades across a field, when suddenly the enemy fired from positions in ditches on the opposite side of the road. Realizing that his platoon’s flank was exposed, Sergeant Lonsway immediately crossed the highway in the face of the enemy fire, and began firing at the foe. Engaging five of the enemy, he doggedly held his position alone until reinforced by a rifle squad. During the latter stages of the action, Sergeant Lonsway was wounded by the hostile fire. His courageous action repulsed a serious threat to our forces, and was an instrumental factor in the success of the attack. 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.