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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) John N. Lewter (ASN: 0-1295040), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 151st Infantry Regiment, 38th Infantry Division, in action at Zig-Zag Pass, Zambales Province, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 10 February 1945. As an infantry battalion was attacking a strongly fortified hill, Lieutenant Lewter’s platoon came under heavy flanking machine gun fire from a strongly fortified and concealed position. With complete disregard for his own safety, he went forward across open terrain and through heavy machine gun fire to determine the location of the pillbox. After locating the pillbox, he skillfully maneuvered his platoon and eliminated the enemy strongpoint, thereby enabling the company to move to its objective. During this action Lieutenant Lewter was mortally wounded. Lieutenant Lewter’s calm leadership under enemy fire reflects the highest credit upon himself and the Military Service.