(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 (Chaplain’s Corps) Gerald William Taggart (ASN: 0-488189), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Chaplain with the 175th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, during the Battle for Brest, Brittany, in August and September 1944. Chaplain Taggart was administering to the wounded when his battalion was forced to withdraw, and the medal officers in their makeshift aid station in a barn, were surrounded by the enemy. After the German’s commanded them to come out of the barn, an order reinforced by machine gun fire, Chaplain Taggart opened the door, clearly marked by a Red Cross, and advanced toward the enemy shouting, “Don’t Shoot. Wounded!” To give evidence of his statement, in then instructed several bandaged and blood-stained soldiers to show themselves. The enemy opened fire on the defenseless group, killing ten of them. Chaplain Taggard and a few others escaped by falling face down and feigning death. Returning to the barn after the enemy had passed on, Chaplain Taggart gave aid and comfort to the wounded and inspired resistance for six hours, and then guided the survivors through enemy lines to safety. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Chaplain Taggart, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.