The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Robert Clay Alder (ASN: 0-1183455), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery B, 203d Field Artillery Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action on 10 April 1945, in Germany. Lieutenant Alder was acting in the capacity of battery commander when thirteen enemy planes attacked his position. Showing great courage, he left his sheltered position to calm the men of his battery and to organize first aid teams to move the wounded to shelters and give aid. By the fearless and inspiring manner in which he performed his duty during this critical time, Lieutenant Alder kept his battery under complete control and maintained efficient operation. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Alder, 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.