The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant William Butler (ASN: 34665526), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy, while serving with the 26th Infantry Division in Germany. During operations near Wolfgang, Staff Sergeant Butler, a Company G Squad leader, led his men forward in an attempt to aid three scouts who had been caught under heavy machine gun and rifle fire. Reaching a point approximately 300 yards forward of their original position, the squad came under intense hostile fire. Staff Sergeant Butler immediately established a position, wounded one of the enemy. In the fierce fire fight, one of the trapped scouts was able to withdraw safely and the squad members, moving forward under Staff Sergeant Butler’s skilled direction, reached the position of the remaining two scouts, only to find them dead. Staff Sergeant Butler then ordered his men to withdraw while he remained behind to cover their movement with his own fire. The squad withdrew safely but, as Staff Sergeant Butler moved back, he was fatally wounded by enemy machine gun fire. His aggressive leadership, unusual courage under fire, and loyal devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Staff Sergeant Butler and the Armed Forces of the United States.