The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major General Raymond Oscar Barton (ASN: 0-3401), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding General of the 4th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in France, on 24 June 1944. On that date the 1st Battalion, 22d Infantry Regiment was in an isolated position on high ground in the vicinity of a certain airport. A dirt road which was under constant observation and enemy artillery and small arms fire was the only available route from our established positions to this battalion. The Germans were also firing anti-aircraft guns using point detonation ammunition on trees and hedges growing parallel with this route. For a period of more than 24 hours the only mans of supplying this battalion with the necessities of combat was to run tanks up this road under cover of supporting fire. During this time General Barton, with utter disregard for his own welfare and over the protests of officers of the 22d Infantry Regiment, traveled this road in a quarter-ton vehicle and joined the 1st Battalion. The general then moved forward to each front line company contacting officers and men. His presence in the very front lines at a time when the enemy was inflicting heavy casualties upon our troops, who were struggling desperately to hold this position so vital to our cause, was of immeasurable aid and inspired both officers and mento greater efforts. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major General Barton, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.