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 G. Polakovic (ASN: 35015907), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 4 February 1945. Private First Class Polakovic, a rifle grenadier, volunteered to use his weapon against a strong pillbox when machine gun and rifle fire failed to neutralize it. He crossed one hundred and fifty yards through the lines of fire of enemy machine guns to a spot from which he could best accomplish his mission, There, despite a serous wound, Private First Class Polakovic placed the Japanese at such a disadvantage that his platoon successfully eliminated the pillbox. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Polakovic, 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.