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 Bertie I. Epting (ASN: 34794594), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 314th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 26 June 1944 in France. While serving as forward radio operator in a hastily established observation post in a building in the city of Cherbourg, Private Epting doggedly kept to his post under heavy fire from enemy artillery, machine guns, and sniper fire. He was forced to leave the post on two occasions when direct hits were received, but each time returned to continue to radio the necessary information to his battery. His devotion to duty under the most hazardous circumstances, and his coolness under heavy fire reflect highest credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.