Frank J. Belter

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Frank J. Belter (36833083), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action on 11 February, 1945 in France. While attacking well-fortified houses in an enemy held town, Staff Sergeant Belter volunteered to lead his squad across open, fire-swept terrain into a group of houses where they could deliver fire on the enemy’s rear. Fully aware of the danger involved he started to advance across the open space. While running towards his objective Staff Sergeant Belter was killed by machine-gun fire. His heroic action inspired his comrades to renewed aggressiveness against the hostile force.