(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) John W. Baumgartner, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Germany, on or about 6 May 1945. As his company reached the river at the edge of Kulsam, the third platoon, led by Lieutenant Baumgartner, captured the one and only bridge remaining intact in the entire area. A cache of nitroglycerine was under the bridge and two 500-pound bombs were on top. The capture of this bridge enabled the CCA of the 9th Armed Division to roll through and head for the city of Falkenau. Lieutenant Baumgartner’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.