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 Fletcher C. Wiles (ASN: 36900818), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Belgium, on 7 January 1945. Sergeant Wiles, a squad leader, assumed command of his platoon when the platoon leader became a casualty during an attack against stubbornly resisting enemy troops. Displaying a high order of personal bravery, and qualities of leadership and tactical acumen far beyond that expected of a soldier of his grade, Sergeant Wiles promptly reorganized the platoon, exposed himself to heavy enemy machine gun and small arms fire as he moved among the men, placing them in the best available defensive positions, then directed their fire and movement in repelling a number of sharp counterattacks. Inspired by the gallantry of their leader, the troops held fast until other platoons of the company moved forward to support the attack. 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.