The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Math R. Barto (ASN; 37030481), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 253d Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 14 January 1945, in the vicinity of Hanweiler, Germany. Leading a reconnaissance patrol to determine the strength of an enemy strongpoint in the town, Sergeant Barto observed an enemy sentry walking post and halted him. The sentry, although surprised, dropped to the ground and opened fire, arousing other enemy within an adjacent house. He then ran to the rear of the building and fired at the enemy attempting an encirclement movement, thus giving the impression that a larger force was in the area. As soon as he was certain that his men had withdrawn safely, he withdrew himself, carrying with him the required information he had set out to ascertain. The outstanding courage and leadership displayed by Sergeant Barto in this action reflect the highest credit upon himself and upon the Armed Forces of the United States.