WAR DEPARTMENT
THE ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE
WASHINGTON 25. D.C.

AGPD-E 201 Atherton, Roger L.

22 October 1945

Mr. Roger W. Atherton

Payette, Idaho

Dear Mr. Atherton:

     I have the honor to inform you that, by direction of the President, the Silver Star has. been posthumously awarded to your son, Corporal Roger L. Atherton, Infantry. The citation is as follows:

SILVER STAR

"For gallantry in action on 20 September 1944 at *** Holland. Corporal Atherton was an ATRL Section Leader, Company "H", 508th Parachute Infantry, supporting a night attack by Company "H", against the strongly defended town of *** Holland, 20 September 1944.  Two German machine guns firing in section defended the enemy MLR at our point and pinned the Third Platoon to the ground. Corporal Atherton ordered his ATRL Section to move to positions not covered by these machine guns and direct their rockets into the German positions. While his section maneuvered into positions, Corporal Atherton approached the German guns and covered the movement of his section by diverting the fire of enemy riflemen securing the German position. The ATRL team succeeded in destroying both guns and caused a break in the German MLR. The company attack was permitted to penetrate the enemy defense and subsequently captured the town. Corporal Atherton was killed in this action. "

     The decoration will be forwarded to the Commanding General, Ninth Service Command, Fort Douglas, Utah, who will select an officer to make the presentation. The officer selected will communicate with you concerning your wishes about the presentation.

     My deepest sympathy is extended to you in your bereavement.

Sincerely yours
/s/ EDWARD F. WITSELL
Major General
Acting The Adjutant General