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 Burnice J. McVicker (ASN: 6891476), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 6th Field Artillery Battalion, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 1 February 1945. When an enemy shell landed near an artillery gun emplacement it severely wounded one of our men and ignited grass and powder increments near the position. The wounded man could not move and was in danger of being engulfed in flames. Sergeant McVicker rushed into the heat and dense smoke, covered the stricken man’s body with his own, and remained in this protective position until assistance arrived. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant McVicker, 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.