Lowell V. Klatz

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Lowell V. Klatz, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Coast Artillery Regiment, during the Japanese aerial attack on Oahu, Territory of Hawaii, on 7 December 1941. While on duty near Wahiawa, Staff Sergeant Klatz distinguished himself with gallantry in action for bringing down a Japanese plane with his automatic rifle. He voluntarily and on his own initiative without regard for his own safety left the shelter of the Command Post in the face of heavy fire from enemy planes. He coolly waited in an exposed position until one of the enemy planes approached within 100 yards and then deliberately aimed automatic rifle fire at one of the two enemy planes. Firing along with Second Lieutenant Stephen G. Saltzman, the combined fire caused the enemy plane to crash resulting in the destruction of the airship and its crew. The cool determination and disregard for his personal safety displayed was an inspiration to the members of his regiment.

Authority: “Heroes of Pearl Harbor”, Donald K. & Helen L. Ross