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 Joseph C. Walker, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 3d Armored Division, in action against the enemy in Belgium on 12 September 1944. On the afternoon of 12 September 1944, Corporal Walker’s unit was assigned to perform a reconnaissance in force mission and to fight its way as far as possible into enemy territory. After the unit had advanced approximately three miles through an heavily wooded area it ran into an enemy road block. The enemy opened with a intensive barrage of anti-tank gun fire and the situation appeared critical as the area was too woody to deploy any combat vehicles off the road. At this time Private First Class Walker immediately dismounted a .30 caliber machine gun and with complete disregard for his own safety proceeded around the right flank of the anti-tank gun and opened fire on the enemy. The gun jammed and in the face of continuous small arms fire, Private First Class Walker seized his rifle and opened fire on the enemy gun crew, causing them to withdraw, whereupon he went forward and destroyed the anti-tank gun. The skill which Private First Class Walker displayed on this assignment, his courage and determination to close with the enemy regardless of consequences and the obstacles which confronted hi are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.