The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Armor) Ivan W. Walker (ASN: 0-2000080), 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 18 February 1945 in Germany. On that date, while attacking the heavily fortified position near Beaufort, Germany, Lieutenant Walker’s command tank was set ablaze by a direct hit which wounded him and his entire crew. Despite his own injuries and the continuous shelling, Lieutenant Walker extinguished the fire and, after extricating all the crew, carried them one by one to a place where medical aid could be had. Lieutenant Walker’s courage, determination, and devotion to his men and 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.