The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Walter H. Clark (ASN: 20608266), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 35th Infantry Division in the vicinity of *** Normandy, France, on 12 July 1944. While his company was supporting the battalion attack, an enemy counterattack disrupted the advanced elements of the units and threatened to overrun the battalion position, precipitating the disorganization of a number of troops in the forward elements of the battalion. Sergeant Clark seized his heavy machine gun and lifted it from its tripod, and in the immediate presence and full view of the enemy, under enemy fire, held the weapon in his hands, and without regard for his personal safety, delivered fire upon and checked the advancing enemy until his own troops rallied and reformed their lines to halt the enemy counterattack. By his example of courage, determination and coolness, and action beyond the call of duty, Sergeant Clark assisted materially in the halting of the enemy counterattack. By his example of courage, determination and coolness, and action beyond the call of duty, Sergeant Clark assisted materially in the halting of the enemy counterattack and in insuring the success of his battalion in subsequent action against the enemy. 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.