The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Private First Class] Robert F. Wilson (ASN: 34506702), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Belgium, on 15 January 1945. During the course of an attack against the village of ****, Sergeant Wilson, a rifleman, saw an enemy soldier behind a clump of bushes, crawled toward him, then, when his rifle jammed, employed the ruse of working the operating handle of his rifle, whereupon the German surrendered. Sergeant Wilson forced his prisoner to lead him to four enemy machine gunners, all of whom surrendered. While escorting the five Germans to the rear, Sergeant Wilson learned that his commanding officer had been wounded, and litter bearers were not immediately available. He secured a litter and with the aid of his prisoners, returned to the field where the officer was lying, and evacuated him to an aid station. These gallant actions were performed under heavy fire. 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.