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 Walter R. Yates (ASN: 34636870), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 23 November 1944, in Germany. When infantry troops were attacking an enemy-occupied town the attack bogged down. Private First Class Yates, who was manning a machine gun with two comrades, acting on his own initiative and with utter disregard for the danger involved, advanced to a position in front of the riflemen and gave supporting fore which enabled the infantry to push forward vigorously to capture the objective. Later, when a withdrawal was ordered, Private First Class Yates and his comrades remained behind to cover the withdrawal so that it was made with a minimum of casualties. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Yates, 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.