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 Walter McAloon (ASN: 6146529), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, in 1943. When the advance of his unit was held up by fire from an enemy machine gun position, Sergeant McAloon voluntarily crossed rugged, mountainous terrain under heavy enemy fire and silenced this machine gun with his automatic rifle. 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.