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) Charles D. Wilkerson (ASN: 0-1168136), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 861st Field Artillery Battalion, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 17 February 1945, in the vicinity of Sarreguemines, France. In an attack, Captain Wilkerson was attached to a battalion of the 253d Infantry Regiment as artillery liaison officer. During one stage of the action, the battalion was taken under heavy mortar fire while in an exposed position. Although under direct enemy observation and heavy mortar fire, Captain Wilkerson erected his radio and directed accurate artillery fire which silenced the enemy mortars and thereby permitted the infantry to continue its advance and accomplish its objective. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.