The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Walter A. Luther (ASN: 0-395860), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 10th Mountain Infantry Division, in action on 20 February 1945, near Mount Belvedere, Italy. During the assault on a strongly defended mountain peak, Captain Luther went forward of his company with a small detachment of men to scout out enemy positions on the summit in preparation for moving his men into position to wipe out the last hostile resistance. He set up an outpost about midway between his front line and the enemy positions, and was spotting the hostile emplacements when a terrific barrage of mortar, machine gun and small arms fire-swept the area, and the enemy launched a counter-attack against the small detachment. While one of his men attempted to contact their battalion headquarters by radio to ask for support, Captain Luther held the enemy at bay with fire from his sub-machine gun and with hand grenades. As the little group aggressively maintained their position against overwhelming odds, enemy sniper fire hit Captain Luther and instantly killed him. Inspired by his spirited leadership and courageous sacrifice, his men continued to fight on until help reached them, and they were able to consolidate their positions on the summit of the mountain, thus completing their mission. Captain Luther, by his splendid courage and aggressive actions, has earned the perpetual admiration and praise of those who witnessed his heroic deeds. His accomplishments have earned him a high place in the finest traditions of the United States Army.