The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Walter C. Langlotz, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Salerno, Italy, on 9 September 1943. Private First Class Langlotz, an Infantry automatic rifleman, assaulted the beach with the first troops and advanced with his squad until stopped by machinegun fire from an enemy halftrack. Climbing over a rock wall, constantly exposed to the furious cross fire of enemy machineguns, he set up his weapon to fire on the halftrack. At the same time his squad leader crept to its right flank, and with effective fire from his anti-tank grenade launcher, knocked out the vehicle. Pushing forward, Private First Class Langlotz became separated form the remainder of his squad in the darkness and the confusion of enemy fire. While crossing an open field, he heard enemy machine gunners and riflemen shouting orders to fire on the approaching troops of his own unit. Realizing that his comrades were advancing into a trap, completely unaware of the proximity of the enemy, he opened fire with his automatic rifle and emptied several; magazines into the area occupied by the confused enemy forces, inflicting numerous casualties and completely disorganizing the attack. Private First Class Langlotz’s 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.