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 Private First Class Albert Zelmer (ASN: 36180264), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 30 January 1945. Private First Class Zelmer was a member of a squad which had to cross a lane of enemy fire in order to reach a new position. The first man who attempted to break through the lane was wounded and, unable to crawl to safety, remained in full view of the enemy. Private First Class Zelmer, without waiting for the enemy guns to stop, ran directly into the path of fire, reached the wounded man and dragged him back to safety. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Zelmer, 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.