The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Norman R. McDaniel (ASN: 36653027), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. During the attack in the Irisian River Bridge area on 21 April 1945, Private McDaniel’s platoon made a surprise attack on enemy artillery positions overlooking the bridge. As the unit advanced it met intense fire from Japanese hidden in caves and foxholes protecting the gun emplacements. While other members of his platoon were engaging the hostile forces on one side of the road, Private McDaniel courageously moved out along in front of our most advanced elements to fire at the Japanese on the opposite side. Although the enemy directed severe fire at his exposed position, he heroically returned a large volume of effective automatic rifle fire until fatally wounded by a Japanese rifleman. Private McDaniel killed at least three enemy soldiers, and his bold and courageous action was an instrumental factor in the successful rout of the Japanese. 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.