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] George E. Barton (ASN: 35138407), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 319th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 7 February 1945 in Germany. During the severe struggle for a bridgehead across the swollen Our River into the Siegfried Line near Wallendorf, Germany, supplies were moved forward and casualties back in assault boats under the cover of darkness. On 7 February 1945 Technical Sergeant Barton, a platoon guide, volunteered to row the final boatload of casualties back in assault boats during daylight under enemy observation. Despite the enemy mortar and small arms fire which harassed the loading operations, Technical Sergeant Barton calmly completed his work and despite the sniper fire directed at him guided the boat safely to the friendly shore. Technical Sergeant Barton’s courage, bravery, and loyal 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.