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) John A. Wurster (ASN: 0-1318629), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 17 February, 1945. Lieutenant Wurster, a staff officer of an infantry regiment, volunteered to act as artillery observer during an attack against enemy positions located in mountainous terrain. To secure maximum observation he had to crawl to a small knoll, which was constantly subjected to heavy machine gun and rifle fire. Although painfully injured in the leg by Japanese machine gun fire in this hazardous position, he remained to register the artillery and direct the evacuation of other wounded, who required stretcher removal. His courageous action was responsible for the complete annihilation of the enemy defenses in the sector and helped save the lives of many men. 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.