Headquarters, 90th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 59 (September 12, 1944), amended by G.O. No. 72 (September 22, 1944)
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel (Infantry) George Bittman Barth (ASN: 0-11241), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 357th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division. On 7 August 1944 at ****, France, when a special force led by Colonel Barth arrived at ****, he was heavily attacked by enemy Infantry and Artillery. He personally directed a rapid attack driving the enemy Infantry back, and disregarding the threat to his flank, he personally remained at a position under fire, directing his column in a rapid advance past the threatening enemy forces completing their encirclement and resulting in the capture of several hundred prisoners. Later, in order to advance on **** when his column was stopped by enemy Infantry and Anti-tank weapons Colonel Barth personally went forward and observed the reduction of a road block, under fire from enemy Anti-tank guns and small arms. This gallant action was a fine example to his soldiers and is in keeping with the highest military traditions. Also, on August 7, Colonel Barth was ordered to cross the **** River south of the city and to outflank the defense of the city from the south. All crossings over the river were destroyed. Colonel Barth placed himself at the head of the Battalion designated to make the crossing and realizing that speed was essential he collected all available small boats and personally, in the face of possible enemy resistance, crossed with the first squad so that he could personally reconnoiter and direct the rapid movement of the Battalion in executing the flank envelopment. His rapid movement and personal leadership brushed aside enemy defenses and the city was quickly occupied and secured.