The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class [then Private] Franklin E. Walton (ASN: RA-18211785), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 16 October 1951 in the vicinity of Tokkoi-li, Korea. On that date Private Walton was with a wire team which had the mission of maintaining adequate communications between the forward command post and the friendly unit which was engaged in a combat operation. Although under constant enemy observation and fire, he advanced over the hazardous terrain in order to accomplish his assignment. In the course of this act, he suddenly heard the cries of his wounded comrades. Without hesitation and disregarding the risk involved, he left his position of comparative safety to assist the wounded men. After administering first aid he made repeated trips over the fire-swept area, carrying his wounded comrades, until all of them were evacuated to positions of safety. His heroic actions were responsible for saving the lives of the wounded men. The gallantry in action and devotion to duty displayed by Private Walton reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.