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 D. R. Shafer (ASN: 35119394), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, during World War II. Sergeant Shafer observed a large cave which appeared to be occupied by the enemy. He immediately sent to the rear for a demolitions team, and then, with two other members of his squad, took position at the cave’s entrance. Suddenly the enemy tossed a hand grenade from the cave. Disregarding his personal safety, Sergeant Shafer flung himself bodily against his two comrades, knocking them out of the path of the flying fragments. He then threw a smoke grenade into the cave, and as eleven Japanese came swarming out they were all killed, four by Sergeant Shafer. The cave was sealed by a demolition team, and subsequently when reopened it revealed 29 additional enemy dead. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.