The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William A. Davidson (ASN: 38433745), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 7 February, 1945. Private Davidson, a rocket launcher operator, crawled 20 yards over open ground while under enemy mortar fire, to reach a position from which he could fire into an enemy machine gun emplacement. Kneeling in an entirely exposed position, he took deliberate aim, launched three rockets and destroyed the enemy pillbox. He then crawled through debris and under enemy fire to within 75 yards of another enemy pillbox, scored three direct hits, and destroyed that position. The elimination of these two enemy positions materially aided his organization in successfully accomplishing its mission. 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.