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 Theodore S. Watson (ASN: 32798271), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 21 December 1944, near ****, Belgium. During an attack on a strongly defended town, Private Watson unhesitatingly left his covered position and braved a hail of 20-mm. cannon and machine gun fire to go to the aid of five wounded men. With complete disregard for his own safety, he safely evacuated all the casualties. Later, when a strong counter-attack caused six more casualties, Private Watson again exposed himself with great gallantry to render first aid. He shielded the wounded with his own body while evacuating them across one hundred fifty yards of open, shell-swept terrain. The courageous gallantry displayed by Private Watson was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Medical Corps.