The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Stafford A. Cooper, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 546th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion, 65th Infantry Division, in action during the sweep through upper Austria. Colonel Cooper accompanied the first assault wave as it crossed the Inn River. When the advance of the infantry was impeded by a high wall, he boldly advanced forward of the troops on a personal reconnaissance of the area to seek an exit away from the river. He broke into a hospital which was affording the enemy excellent observation and disconnected all lines to the switchboard so that no calls could be transmitted to the German garrison. Then, in order to prevent occupants of the building from leaving, Colonel Cooper personally guarded the door until the arrival of friendly troops. His outstanding leadership, far-sightedness, and completed disregard for his own safety reflect the greatest credit upon Colonel Cooper and the Armed Forces of the United States.