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 George E. Whitman (ASN: 34155722), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 5 February, 1945. During operations near the Pasig River, Private Whitman was wounded by shrapnel. Disregarding his own injuries, he organized a litter team, consisting of three civilians and himself, carried a wounded man five hundred yards through two concentrated bands of machine gun fire. As a result he was instrumental in saving the man’s life, though in doing so, he aggravated his own wounds and suffered more serious complications. 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.