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 Walter Jerome Baecker, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 66th Armored Infantry Battalion, 2d Armored Division, in action against the enemy in Germany, from 120 to 12 October 1944. During this period the First Platoon, of which Sergeant Baecker was platoon sergeant, held the right flank of the company sector. This flank was under heavy artillery and mortar fire directed from *****. With utter disregard for his personal safety, Sergeant Baecker left the protection of his own tank and climbed a nearby tree, using it as an observation post. He acted as a forward observer, directing artillery fire on an enemy self-propelled gun which was firing at his platoon, successfully destroying the gun. Sergeant Baecker’s courage, fortitude, and aggressive leadership caused many lives to be saved and were an inspiration to his men. 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.