The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel (Corps of Engineers) Alexander Murray Neilson, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Deputy Commanding Officer of the 2d Engineer Brigade (Special), SIXTH U.S. Army, in action against the enemy at Mindoro Island, Philippine Islands, on 18 December 1944. Colonel Neilson was a passenger on a picket boat en route from Mangarin Bay to San Augustin when they passed through a squadron of PT boats which were engaged in a fight with enemy planes. One Japanese plane crash-dived into a PT boat, destroying it and leaving flaming pools of gasoline and burning wreckage on the water. Colonel Neilson immediately ordered his boat to the scene and, together with other personnel aboard, rescued six of the injured survivors. This action took place in the center of three burning gasoline pools with flames licking the stern of the boat. Colonel Neilson’s boat was the only one able to enter the blazing area. Despite the imminent danger from other enemy planes, the burning gasoline, and the explosion of ammunition and torpedoes, Colonel Neilson, with complete disregard for his own personal safety and by his prompt, courageous action, was instrumental in saving the lives of six men. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Neilson, 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.