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 [then Private] Louis Palma (ASN: 31349678), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 12 April 1945. Private Palma was moving along a road with his platoon, which was supported by tanks, when enemy machine guns, rifles and mortars suddenly opened fire from a hill to the front. The infantrymen took cover, but the heavy concentration of fire around the tanks made their positions extremely precarious. Upon observing the position of the hostile machine guns, Private Palma immediately left his covered position, and dashed up to one of the tanks. Climbing up on the tank under the intense fire, he beat against the turret until he attracted the attention of the tank commander. Then, he pointed out the position of one of the Japanese machine guns, and it was soon neutralized. His courageous action greatly facilitated the successful accomplishment of his unit’s 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 and the United States Army.