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 Sergeant Robert D. Shellito (ASN: 13132332), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 105th Engineer Combat Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 3 October 1944, in Germany. During the assault on the Siegfried Line, Sergeant Shellito and a comrade volunteered to make a reconnaissance for a crossing site over the Wurm River. The area to be covered was in full view of formidable defenses within the line and Sergeant Shellito was subjected to heavy concentration of enemy fire. Despite the dangers encountered, Sergeant Shellito and his comrade courageously remained in the exposed area until the mission had been completed. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Shellito, 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.