The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Carl J. Teal (ASN: 39471480), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 20 April 1945. Private Teal, acting as first scout for his platoon, observed the barrel of an enemy machine gun as he came to the top of a small hill. He stopped the platoon and proceeded alone to reconnoiter the heavily wooded area. Spotting two enemy soldiers in a clearing, he crawled through the underbrush to within ten yards of them and killed them with his rifle. Enemy riflemen in two caves dug into the hillside then opened fire on him. Private Teal scaled the slope of the hill under this hostile fire, crawled to within 30 yards of the caves, and threw four hand grenades which killed the two occupants of these positions. Private Teal’s bold actions greatly facilitated the advance of our troops. 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.