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) George A. Barten (ASN: 0-362040), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 275th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division, on 25 February 1945, near Grosbliederstroff, France. While reconnoitering, with two other officers for a forward observation post, Colonel Barten, from high ground, observed an enemy bunker near an important road intersection. With one of the officers, he brought fire on the enemy, killing two and wounding one. Disregarding hostile machine gun fire, the two kept the bunker covered while the third officer brought up three enlisted men who then flanked the position and killed or wounded eight of the enemy as they attempted to leave the strong point. Colonel Barten and one officer then moved up and completed the operation, taking three enemy machine guns. His gallant action removed an enemy threat to an important road intersection.