The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel Walter J. Burk (ASN: 0-342887), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 13 September 1944 in France. During a heavy counterattack by infantry and armor, directed against the Moselle River bridgehead at Dieulouard, France, Lieutenant Colonel Burk exhibited the highest qualities of leadership, resourcefulness, and great personal courage by exposing himself to intense artillery and small arms fire in order to rally disorganized troops and form a defensive position to repel the hostile forces. Lieutenant Colonel Burk’s gallantry and unselfish 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.