The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Will B. Wharton (ASN: 0-1287449), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 18 November 1944, in Germany. When his platoon encountered fire from an enemy-occupied house, Technical Sergeant Brown boldly crawled forward alone to assault it. Kicking the door open, he quickly stepped aside to dodge a burst of machine gun fire aimed at him. A comrade who then joined him flung a grenade through the door, following which Technical Sergeant Brown boldly entered and leveled his submachine gun at the enemy, taking them by surprise and causing them to surrender without a fight. Technical Sergeant Brown’s gallant action was largely responsible for the elimination of an enemy strongpoint and the capture of three prisoners. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technical Sergeant Brown, 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.