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 First Class Walker E. Magruder (ASN: 38691283), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 315th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 24 March 1945 in Germany. When his advancing company was halted by enemy fire, Private Magruder advanced boldly to a position commanding the enemy emplacement. Despite the intensity of enemy fire directed at him, he fired three rounds from the shoulder with a direct fire mortar, scoring hits on the enemy position. His accurate fire killed two of the enemy, wounded three, and destroyed a machine gun and three machine pistols. His company was then able to advance, attaining its objective in a minimum of time. The great courage and initiative exhibited by Private Magruder reflect highest credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.