The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Second Lieutenant] Wendell T. Nickerson (ASN: 0-1319222), United States Army, for gallantry in action in northern France while serving with the 358th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division. On 16 June 1944, Lieutenant Nickerson, a Platoon Leader, waded and swam some 800 yards under heavy fire to the Battalion C. P. in order to get supporting fire placed upon the enemy position. Lieutenant Nickerson then worked his way back through the hostile fire to the forward elements which he moved to a more secure position and directed evacuation of the wounded from the fire swept area. By his leadership, courage and determination, Lieutenant Nickerson was not only an inspiration to the men but also prevented many additional casualties and contributed largely to the fulfillment of his battalion mission.