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 (Infantry) George A. Cook (ASN: 0-1288712), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 8 November 1944 in France. On that date, while lying in a field completely devoid of cover and concealment, Captain Cook, under intense enemy mortar, artillery, machine gun and small arms fire, directed artillery fire against the enemy, successfully disrupting an enemy counterattack destroying two 75-mm. guns, one anti-tank gun, and inflicting numerous enemy casualties. His outstanding bravery, aggressiveness, and constant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.