The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Cavalry) Robert C. Walsh (ASN: 0-445650), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a platoon leader in the 4th Reconnaissance Troop Mechanized, 4th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Meautis, France, on 10 July 1944. While leading his unit on a vital mission to seize and secure a bridge of importance to assaulting friendly troops, Lieutenant Walsh’s platoon came under heavy enemy fire and its advance was halted. He immediately directed his vehicles to move into covered positions. Voluntarily leading a six-man patrol through a heavily mined road block and concentrated artillery fire, they crawled behind the enemy lines in an effort to determine the depth and location of enemy elements which were holding up the attack of friendly units. His patrol was discovered and subjected to intense enemy rifle and automatic-weapons fire. Totally disregarding his safety, he ordered the members of his patrol to withdraw while he maintained his position and engaged the enemy in a continuous exchange of fire until mortally wounded. Lieutenant Walsh’s initiative, courage and devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself and the military service.