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 (Field Artillery), [then First Lieutenant] Walter J. Todd, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the XII Corps, in action against the enemy in France, on 8 November 1944. While reconnoitering for a forward position for his battery, Captain Todd acted as volunteer aid man and litter bearer in a heavily mined area at a time when one soldier was killed by exploding mines and another soldier was injured. Captain Todd, at the risk of his life, without being ordered to do so, displayed selfless heroism. He entered upon a mined road to aid in the evacuation of the injured man. In so doing he acted as a relief litter bearer and aid man and succeeded in evacuating the injured man. By the undirected risk of his life, Captain Todd demonstrated for the benefit of his battalion that the particular road was not a suitable route over which to move the battalion during its displacement forward. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Todd, 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.