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 Sergeant Edmund C. Widen (ASN: 16037652), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, during World War II. When the advance of his squad was halted by a heavy enemy mortar barrage at Mount Pacawagan on 22 April 1945, Sergeant Widen, from his covered position, observed a wounded comrade lying in a position completely exposed to hostile fire. Despite the continual Japanese fire, Sergeant Widen rose and dashed across the open area to the side of the casualty. He quickly applied a temporary bandage, and then, under direct observation and fire of the enemy, carried the injured man 75 yards down a steep slope toward the forward aid station. When he was within 15 yards of his destination, Sergeant WIDEN was fatally wounded by enemy machine gun fire. 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.