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 Lieutenant Colonel (General Staff Corps) Walter W. Plechner (ASN: 0-215034), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, on 4 March 1943. During an important reconnaissance beyond our front lines, Colonel Plechner, despite enemy fire, courageously approached a bridge demolition in an attempt to locate a mine-free route. Although he failed in this attempt and was killed by an exploding mine, Colonel Plechner’s action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the Military Forces of the United States.