The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant John E. Latimer (ASN: 38418395), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Luxembourg, on 4 January 1945. Sergeant Latimer, but recently transferred from an ordnance unit to lead an infantry squad, was so engaged when his platoon spear-headed an attack near ****. In this action, when his platoon leader and platoon sergeant were both wounded, Sergeant Latimer, on his own initiative, immediately assumed command of the platoon and, exposing himself to the enemy fire, reorganized it and led its advance to reach the company objective. Sergeant Latimer’s initiative, resourcefulness and leadership, despite his limited infantry experience, reflect credit upon his character as a soldier and upon the military service.