The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Chaplain’s Corps) Ottomar Henry Tietjen (ASN: 0-514981), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Regimental Chaplain of the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. Chaplain Tietjen courageously exposed himself to enemy fire in lending spiritual comfort, encouragement and medical assistance to front line troops engaged in driving the foe from the Paco District of Manila during the period from 8 February to 18 February 1945. On one occasion he volunteered to assist in carrying a litter from a front line position, and was painfully wounded in the wrist by an enemy rifleman. He refused hospitalization, and just a few days later was again wounded while assisting in administering aid to the wounded during a Japanese mortar barrage. Chaplain Tietjen’s presence among the combat troops when the going was the toughest, and his inspirational messages of faith and encouragement, delivered under fire, were of inestimable value in maintaining a high state of morale among our forces. 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.