The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant [then Staff Sergeant] Walter Jodik (ASN: 33185971), 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 11 February 1945 in Germany. On that date, during an assault into the Siegfried Line near Wallendorf, Germany, Technical Sergeant Jodik, a platoon guide, led a group in carrying casualties down the steep hill to an aid station. Despite the severe fire covering the area Technical Sergeant Jodik and his men evacuated casualties over the dangerous route until at daybreak when they were fired upon from an enemy held pillbox. Disregarding his own safety, Technical Sergeant Jodik attacked the pillbox and killed the occupants with grenades, giving the exposed litter squad a refuge from enemy fire until darkness could conceal their movements. Technical Sergeant Jodik’s courage, initiative, and sincere 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.