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 Paul J. Polk (ASN: 38033553), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 8 February 1945. Sergeant Polk was the assistant squad leader of a rifle squad during an attack on a strongly fortified enemy position. Upon hearing that the right flank of his company was exposed, he acted entirely on his own initiative and crawled forward through hostile fire to a position 50 yards from the enemy. From this location, using only his rifle, he succeeded in killing five enemy soldiers who were firing a .32 caliber machine gun. He then continued firing on the emplacement with such accuracy that he prevented other Japanese from reaching the gun. His action permitted the friendly troops on his right flank to move forward and establish an unbroken line. Sergeant Polk’s aggressiveness was instrumental in the successful accomplishment of the company’s mission. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Polk, 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.