The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Gerald E. Van Pelt (ASN: 0-1308886), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Manila, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 5 February, 1945. When his platoon’s advance was halted, Lieutenant Van Pelt crossed a mined bridge under heavy enemy fire, and crawled to the top of a building from which he located a strong Japanese position. He then returned to his unit via the same perilous route, secured reinforcements, and led an attack which destroyed the enemy strong point. Later, while leading his platoon to establish contact with another unit, he discovered two enemy soldiers, and killed them with his carbine before they could inflict damage on our troops. 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.