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 Kenneth G. Walther (ASN: 32726465), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action at ****, Germany, on 16 April 1945. When an enemy force of battalion strength launched a counterattack against a newly-won bridgehead and succeeded in capturing his platoon leader, platoon sergeant, and members of a machine gun section and a depleted rifle platoon, Sergeant Walther, a machine gun section leader, quickly reorganized the remainder of his platoon, coordinated it with other friendly elements to form sound defensive positions and, despite his three wounds received in the action, remained to direct his men until ordered to the aid station by an officer. Sergeant Walther’s gallant actions contributed materially to the successful repulse of the enemy and are in accord with the military traditions of the United States.