The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fourth Grade Freeman Wilkins (ASN: 36161892), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Special Troops, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 2 September 1944, in France. On the drive of the 30th Infantry Division from France into Belgium, a distance of approximately 110 miles, Technician Fourth Grade Wilkins accompanied the Task Force Commander. Slightly short of the objective the leading elements were fired on by enemy tanks located on a sunken road on the left flank of the column. In the initial burst of fire the vehicle win which the Task Force Commander and Technician Fourth Grade Wilkins were riding was struck by a 75-mm. shell and the Task Force Commander was wounded in three places. The injured officer sought cover in a ditch along the side of the road. Technician Fourth Grade Wilkins voluntarily exposed himself to the enemy tank fire and joined the Task Force Commander in order to render first aid or perform whatever service might be required. Upon reaching this location he placed himself in such a position as to shield the Task Force commander from further enemy fire, although placing himself in a hazardous position by this act. The gallantry and loyalty displayed by Technician Fourth Grade Wilkins reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.