The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Walter N. Cook, Jr. (ASN: 6973551), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Top Turret Gunner of a of a B-25 Mitchell Bomber of the 90th Bombardment Squadron, 3d Bombardment Group (Light), FIFTH Air Force, near the Philippine Islands on 26 July 1942. On that date, Corporal Cook participated in four attacks against the enemy. During the mission, over 4,000 miles of open sea were covered, and the operations resulted in the destruction of many enemy transports, airplanes and ground installations. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Corporal Cook, 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 Air Forces.