The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Wayne H. Cofer (ASN: 0-1178447), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 230th Field Artillery Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 14 October 1944, in Germany. While Second Lieutenant Cofer was serving as a forward observer with his battalion giving artillery support to an Infantry regiment which was in contact with the enemy, he established his observation post in an abandoned building. During a counterattack launched by the enemy, the observation post was discovered and considerable enemy fire was directed at this position. Despite increasing enemy fire and the fact that the other members of his party had withdrawn to the rear, Second Lieutenant Cover remained in this hazardous position giving fire directions until he became a casualty. The courage, zealous devotion to duty, and indomitable fighting spirit exhibited by Second Lieutenant Cover were material contributions in repulsing an enemy counterattack. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Second Lieutenant Cofer, 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.