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 (Infantry) Fay M. Parker (ASN: 0-538211), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 2 October 1944, in Germany. Second Lieutenant Parker was serving as a mortar forward observer with an Infantry Battalion engaged in an assault against the Siegfried Line. During the attack, Second Lieutenant Parker noticed that one of the platoon leaders of the leading assault wave had become a casualty. Without hesitation, Second Lieutenant Parker assumed command of the platoon and led it in successful attacks on the enemy strongpoints, personally leading the assault on two enemy pillboxes. In addition to these daring acts, Second Lieutenant Parker called for and directed effective mortar fire throughout the engagement. His gallant actions in this dual capacity at a critical moment were a contributing factor in the successful penetration of the Siegfried Line. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Second Lieutenant Parker, 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.