The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Infantry) Oliver Massee. Horton, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 3rd Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in action against the enemy on 5 October 1944, in Holland. When is unit was subject to a strong enemy attack, Major Horton went forward to a critical point which was under heavy mortar and machine gun fire to supervise personally the setting of machine guns and to direct artillery fire in the absence of an artillery observer. Then, in order to place an anti-tank gun in a strategic position he moved forward in front of the friendly lines to where he could obtain a better view of the terrain. During this reconnaissance hew as mortally wounded. His courageous action aided materially in preventing the enemy from flanking his battalion. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Horton, 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.