The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Johnnie I. Walton (ASN: 37113677), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 6 March 1944. Sergeant Walton voluntarily undertook, and successfully completed, the hazardous assignment of arming a mine field, planted in front of his company’s main line of resistance. He accepted the task after one officer had been killed and two soldiers badly injured in attempting to accomplish the mission, and insisted upon completing the assignment, which was necessary for the protection of front-line troops from an imminent Japanese attack in that sector. His bravery and unselfish devotion to duty were an inspiration to the members of his company, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service, reflecting great credit upon himself and the United States Army.