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 (Field Artillery) Francis E. Wilts (ASN: 0-1030316), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 823d Tank Destroyer Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 11 October 1944, in Germany. Captain Wilts was serving as a Company Commander with a tank destroyer battalion engaged in an offensive action against the enemy. When a hostile counterattack developed which threatened his company, Captain Wilts personally directed the fire on the enemy from forward gun positions, exposing himself continually to heavy enemy fire as he moved from place to place on the battlefield, exhorting and encouraging his men, and personally assisting in the evacuation of the wounded. The professional skill, determined leadership, and unselfish loyalty to his troops exhibited by Captain Wilts resulted in the disorganization of the hostile forces, destruction of at least two enemy tanks, and the repelling of the counterattack. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Wilts, 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.