The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Russell E. Parker (ASN: 0-887895), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 19 September 1944 at ****, Holland. During the attack on ****, Second Lieutenant Parker, Company D, 2d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, took eleven men to an enemy-held park and set up a position to protect the flank of Company D. While he engaged the enemy to his front in a fire fight, a group of enemy, in an effort to outflank the company, infiltrated through the park and under supporting fire from two 20-mm. flak guns, charged Second Lieutenant Parker’s position. His men knocked out this platoon with bazookas, Gammon Grenades, and white phosphorus grenades. He then re-engaged the enemy to his front and led his men in an attack on them. They killed ten and wounded several more. By his courage, determination and inspirational leadership, Second Lieutenant Parker defeated a numerically superior enemy and erased a serious threat to Company D. He contributed greatly to an ultimately successful attack on the bridges over the Waal River. 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.