The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Francis Robert Thalken, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 605th Field Artillery Battalion, 10th Mountain Infantry Division, in action against the enemy During the period 21 February 1945 to 23 April 1945, in Northern Italy. As an artillery forward observer attached to an infantry regiment, First Lieutenant Thalken many times risked his life to carry on his vital duties. On one occasion when the enemy launched a fierce counterattack on a newly won mountain position, he crawled thirty yards in front of the most forward position, in the face of heavy mortar and small arms fire to direct supporting fire for the infantry which was instrumental in breaking up the enemy attack. For twenty-three days following this brave deed, he remained continuously on duty at the front. When the final offensive in Italy was begun, he accompanied the regiment during all phases of battle, many times braving the greatest danger to direct the fire of his battery to assist the drive. During the night as he was proceeding forward with a column, he was caught in an enemy ambush and mortally wounded, dying soon afterwards. His gallant conduct under fire and his many heroic acts during the entire period have earned for First Lieutenant Thalken perpetual commemoration in the finest traditions of the United States Army.