The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Sherman Coolidge Shelton (ASN: 34886614), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Germany, in 1944 and 1945. Two infantry companies were attacking an enemy-held town, and during the engagement, it was necessary that a platoon close a gap between the two companies to eliminate enemy resistance between them. Staff Sergeant Shelton and two companions volunteered for the dangerous mission of reconnoitering a route by which the platoon could force its way across the sector. After Crossing an open field subjected to heavy enemy fire, Staff Sergeant Shelton and his comrades engaged in house to house fighting, capturing or killing the enemy troops who had been occupying four houses, thus enabling their platoon to advance. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Staff Sergeant Shelton, 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.