The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Robert A. Aitkan (ASN: 32100291), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 21 August 1944, in France. Staff Sergeant Aitken was assigned to duty as a squad leader with an infantry force engaged in a large scale firefight with a stubborn enemy. By aggressive action and demonstrated professional skill, Staff Sergeant Aitken flanked an enemy force, capturing a number of personnel and enemy material. During this action, he was under machine gun and rifle fire from adjacent enemy units. A short while later, Staff Sergeant Aitken saw some enemy soldiers entering a house, and with complete disregard for his own safety, advanced alone to the house and captured the occupants single-handed. The personal courage and daring exhibited by this outstanding soldier reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.