The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Walter Rusov (ASN: 0-2043012), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the Philippine Islands, on 11 June 1945. When the advance of our forces through the Cagayan Valley was halted at Orioung Pass by intense enemy fire, First Lieutenant Rusov, who was accompanying elements of the leading rifle company, observed the withdrawal of fifteen Japanese soldiers into a draw beside the road. He immediately ordered one of his 37-mm. anti-tank gun squads to follow him into action. As he ran forward to a position from which to fire, fragments from an enemy mortar shell struck him in the back and shoulder. Despite his wounds, First Lieutenant Rusov raced to within 35 yards of the draw containing the enemy and placed the 37-mm. gun in action. Japanese riflemen from nearby positions opened fire on him, and a second mortar shell wounded him again. However, he courageously remained in a kneeling position, in full observation of the enemy, directing the fire of his gun until twelve of the fifteen Japanese were killed. First Lieutenant Rusov’s achievement completely surprised this pocket of enemy, and attacking riflemen were able to assault and easily annihilate the remainder. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Rusov, 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.