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 Technical Sergeant Lester W. Valentine (ASN: 20506072), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 8 February 1945. When a group of by-passed enemy fired upon our advancing elements, Sergeant Valentine’s platoon was ordered to destroy the hostile positions. The Japanese emplacement commanded an excellent view of the surrounding terrain, and approach to it was made difficult by many small streams and marshes. After our troops had made several unsuccessful attempts to reach the hostile strong point, and suffered many casualties, Sergeant Valentine volunteered to advance alone and neutralize the enemy. Completely exposing himself, he crawled to within fifteen yards of the pillbox, and reduced it with two well placed hand grenades. Later investigation revealed six enemy dead and several valuable documents in this emplacement. Sergeant Valentine was killed in a subsequent action. 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.